Health Benefits of Muskmelon ( Shamam Fruit ) – Superhero of Fruits
Muskmelon ( Shamam Fruit ) – Superhero of Fruits
Musk Melon also widely known as Cantaloupe comes under the melon family ‘Curcurbitaceae’ along with pumpkins, gourds and cucumbers. Muskmelon (Cucumis melo) is a species of melon that has been developed into many cultivated varieties. It was originated in India, Iran and Africa whereas first cultivated in Europe and then spread in various regions of the world.
Muskmelon
Muskmelons are monoecious plants. They are abundantly available in the summers and have a super high percentage of water content in them making them cooling and hydrating. Musk melons are a powerhouse of health; they are loaded with so many nutrients that they almost seem like the superhero of fruits.
The nutrition breakdown of 1 cup of Muskmelon is given below:
- Calories: 53
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Carbohydrate: 12 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Dietary Fibre: 1 g
- Sodium: 23 mg
- Vitamin A: 5,276 IU
- Folic Acid: 33 micrograms
- Niacin: 1 mg
- Vitamin B6: <1 mg
- Vitamin C: 57 mg
- Calcium: 14 mg
- Magnesium: 19 mg
- Potassium: 417 mg
- Carotenoids: 3,219 micrograms
Some of the outstanding nutritional health benefits of the muskmelon are mentioned below:
Health Benefits of Muskmelon
Relieves Constipation
Musk melon contains a significant amount of dietary fibre, making it good for those suffering from constipation as it add bulk to your diet. It makes the bowel movement very smooth and easy thus helps in keeping proper digestion. Muskmelons also help relieve symptoms of acidity, indigestion and other stomach ailments.
Good for Pregnant Women
The folic acid present in the fruit is very good for pregnant women and makes the baby healthy. Its high content of folate is known to prevent the neural tube defect that occurs in the second week of pregnancy. High folate content during pregnancy ensures the proper production and maintenance of the new cells, the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Regular consumption of the musk melon during lactation helps mothers by enhancing the sufficient breast milk production to properly feed their baby.
Muskmelon
Good for Skin
It is naturally loaded with the high level of phytonutrients (alpha and beta-carotene), folates, folic acid, potassium, vitamins like C, E, K and A which are highly required nutrients to keep skin natural, soft, glowing, healthy and younger looking. It prevents from the rough and dry skin problems, removes black spots, blemishes and other scars. It helps in maintaining skin hydrated and rejuvenating as it contains vitamins K, B and E.
Anti-Cancer Properties
It reduces the risk of Cancer as it contains antioxidant flavonoids and carotenoids which are anti-cancerous in nature and inhibits the growth of cancerous cells. It safeguards the body against harmful effects of free radicals thus prevents from early ageing and various cancers like Colon Cancer, Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Uterus Cancer, Lung Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer etc.
Helps to Quit Smoking
Cantaloupe is beneficial for those who are trying to quit smoking. It rejuvenates the lungs and helps the body recover from nicotine withdrawal faster. Smoking depletes the amount of vitamin C in the body and by drinking musk melon juice you can replace it.
Makes Immune System Strong
Musk melons are super rich in vitamin C, they strengthen the immune system. They stimulate and increase the white blood cells which help in destroying viruses and bacteria.
Helps in Weight Loss
Muskmelon seeds and the ‘netting’ around them are a great source of fiber and thus, they help you in losing weight. Fiber is beneficial for weight loss as it takes a long time to leave your stomach and enter the digestive tract, thus making you feel full for a longer time. This slow digesting process prevents you from overeating.
Helps to Maintain Cardiovascular Health
Cantaloupes are rich in potassium which controls blood pressure, thus keeping your heart healthy. This mineral also prevents hypertension and prevents sodium from further harming the body. Cantaloupes are also rich in a compound called adenosine which is beneficial for the heart as it has blood thinning properties.
Muskmelon
Prevents Diabetic Nephropathy
Diabetic Nephropathy is a kidney disorder in which the kidney cells get dangerously damaged. Cantaloupe extract known as “oxykine” can prevent this condition.
Treatment of Insomnia
Cantaloupe has effective laxative properties as it contains a special compound that relieves the nerves and calms anxieties. Thus, it helps insomniacs to get rid of their sleeping disorders by soothing their nervous system.
Treats Ulcers
The high quantity of vitamin C helps in the treatment and also prevention of Ulcers.
Good for Eyes
Vitamin A found in it nourishes the nerve tissues of the eyes thus prevents from the age related Macular Degeneration, loss of vision, Cataracts etc. Cantaloupe is rich in beta carotenes which helps in maintaining healthy eyesight. On absorption by the body, these beta carotenes get converted into Vitamin A.
