HEALTH FACTS:
WATERMELON: A HEALTHY TREAT THAT’S FUN TO EAT!

• Watermelon is low in fat and cholesterol-free.
• Watermelon is packed with nutrients especially important for moms to be including most B-vitamins necessary for a baby's proper brain development and naturally contains folate (the natural form of folic acid found in foods), necessary to prevent birth defects like spina bifida.
• Watermelon is an excellent source of an important amino acid, citrulline. The human body uses citrulline to make another important amino acid - arginine - which plays a key role in cell division, wound healing and the removal of ammonia. Watermelon's citrulline stores are not only abundant but they're also readily usable by the body and watermelon is one of the few foods that contain high levels of it.
• Watermelon contains high levels of the antioxidant lycopene – a 300 g (2 cup) serving of watermelon contains 18.16 mg.
• Watermelon has 92 per cent water content and is an excellent hydrator. Water plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells, removing waste, cushioning joints and protecting organs and tissues.
• A diet containing foods high in potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure, a risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Watermelon is low in sodium and a source of potassium.
• A healthy diet rich in a variety of vegetables and fruit may help reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
• Watermelon is a good source of the following (per 250 mL or one-cup serving):
• Vitamin C - a factor in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums
• Thiamine (vitamin B₁) - releases energy from carbohydrates and aids in normal growth
• Vitamin B₆ (also a source of pantothenic acid and magnesium) - a factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation
• And a source of vitamin A - aids in normal bone and tooth development, maintaining the health of the skin and membranes

Source: Canadian Nutrient File 2001B. This value has been computed from USDA Standard Reference Release16.

For further information, please contact:
Andrea Karpala or Debbie Boyce
Faye Clack Communications Inc.
905-206-0577 ext. 233 / 245
akarpala@fayeclack.com / dboyce@fayeclack.com