Tomato is known for its high content of lycopene. Did you know watermelon is also a great source of lycopene?
Although the amount depends on both variety and growing conditions, lycopene contents in red flesh watermelon are about 40% higher than the amount of lycopene in tomatoes. The seedless red fresh watermelon tended to have more.
Lycopene is more absorbable after heat treatment due to the breaking down of the protein carotenoid complex, however, a study shows that lycopene from raw watermelon is absorbed directly into the human body after consumption.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that helps your body from sun damage and improves heart health. High consumption of lycopene might help reduce the incidences of prostate cancer and the risk of other cancers.
Though it is not easy to find tasty watermelon when uncut, red, ripe fresh ones are the sweetest and most nutritious.
【RECIPE】
Ingredients (Serve 1):
Watermelon 1 cup
Orange 1/2
Lime 1/2
Mint 1 Tablespoon
Carbonated water 1/3 cup
R’s KOSO 1 Tablespoon
Instructions
1. Blend watermelon and chopped mint together in a blender for 30 seconds
2. Add fresh squeezed orange juice, R’s KOSO, carbonated water, watermelon mint juice, and lime juice to a glass
3. Garnish with mint leaves
BON APPETIT!
Eriko Shintani
Certified holistic nutritionist/Holistic nutrition advisor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vegefuldays/
