The tropical climate of Jamaica makes it ideal for a plethora of fruits to thrive on the island. These include fruits such as the Otaheite apple, stinking toe, jackfruit and orange, which can all be found across Jamaica.

Not only are these fruits quite tasty and enjoyed by most, but they also provide a number of health benefits. In another edition in Our Today‘s series where we explore the health benefits that Jamaica-found fruits are able to provide, the focus is on the watermelon.

Watermelon is said to come from South Africa and can be traced as far back as 5,000 years ago. Types of watermelons include icebox, yellow/orange, picnic, seedless, citron and Citrullus lantrus.

The flowering plant species is beloved by many Jamaican natives and can also be found in American states including California, Texas and Florida.

Health benefits

Helps with hydration

This low-calorie, summer snack is made up of approximately 90 per cent water, which helps tremendously with keeping the body hydrated.

Relieves muscle soreness

Watermelon, as well as watermelon juice, may help with reducing muscle soreness, especially after a hectic workout. Watermelon contains an amino acid called l-citrulline, which can help to diminish muscle soreness.

Some studies have shown that athletes experience less muscle soreness when they consume a certain amount of watermelon juice before an intense workout.

Helps functions of the nervous system

Choline, an antioxidant found in the fruit, helps with the formation and maintenance of cell membranes and also aids the communication between neurons. Choline can also aid muscle movement, learning, memory, and early brain development.

Choline is also required to make acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter.

Lowers blood pressure

Citrulline, one of the amino acids found in watermelon, can help to manage high blood pressure. The amino acid aids the body in producing nitric oxide a gas that relaxes blood vessels and encourages flexibility in arteries.

This, in turn, improves blood flow and can result in lowered pressure.

Reduces effects of asthma

Watermelon is a good source of vitamin C, a vitamin responsible for reducing asthma effects.

Helps the skin

The rich Vitamin C content found in watermelon also helps with both wound healing and the production of collagen.

Collagen, the main structural protein found in the body’s connective tissues, is essential for healthy joints and skin elasticity, or stretchiness.