Watermelon is one of the natural sources of L-citrulline. In the body, this amino acid is converted into L-arginine, which is necessary for the production of nitric oxide.
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Nitric oxide helps blood vessels relax and expand. When blood flows through them more easily, it can help maintain healthier blood pressure, writes “Verywell Health”.
Watermelon also contains potassium. This mineral helps the body regulate sodium levels and is important for normal blood pressure. However, a typical serving of watermelon does not contain a lot of potassium compared to some other fruits and vegetables.
Important and high water content
More than 90% of watermelon consists of water, so it can help maintain adequate fluid levels in the body.
Good hydration is also important for circulation. Therefore, the effect of watermelon on the heart and vascular system may be related not only to L-citrulline but also to the fact that this fruit helps replenish fluid reserves.
What do studies show?
Studies have linked watermelon extracts containing L-citrulline with a slight reduction in blood pressure, especially in people whose blood pressure is already elevated or who have been diagnosed with hypertension.
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However, the results are not conclusive. A large portion of the studies were conducted using concentrated watermelon extracts, which contain higher amounts of L-citrulline than consuming a regular serving of the fruit.
Results from studies evaluating the effects of fresh watermelon or its juice vary. People with normal blood pressure may not experience significant changes.
Can you eat watermelon every day?
For most healthy people, watermelon can be part of a daily balanced diet. It contains a lot of water, along with beneficial substances for the body.
However, high blood pressure cannot be controlled by watermelon alone. Specialists emphasize that a person’s lifestyle—diet, physical activity, body weight control, and, if prescribed, medical treatment—has much greater importance.
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