Happy National Watermelon Day!
A Few Facts About Watermelons:
- The scientific name for watermelon is Citrullus lanatus
- Watermelons were cultivated at least as early as 2000 B.C.
- Watermelon seeds were found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamen
- Watermelon is a fruit but it is related to other produce that grows on vines like pumpkins and squash
- Early explorers used watermelons as canteens
- There are over 1,200 varieties of watermelon grown worldwide
- In China and Japan a watermelon is considered an excellent hostess gift
- The word "watermelon" first appeared in the English dictionary in 1615
Health Benefits of Watermelon:
- Rich in electrolytes and water content, watermelons are nature's thirst quencher
- Watermelons not only quench your thirst, they can also quench inflammation that contributes to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis
- Watermelons are an excellent source of Vitamin-A, anti-oxidant flavonoids like lycopene, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin
- Watermelons are rich in potassium, vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine), thiamin (vitamin B-1), vitamin-C and manganese
Enjoy National Watermelon Day and don't hit anyone in the eye as you spit out the seeds.
