Particularly rich in water – it contains more than 90% -, the melon helps maintain good hydration while being low in calories with 33 Cal per 100 g. In addition, “the melon contains only 6 g of simple carbohydrates per 100 g, which ranks it among the low-sugar fruits”, underlines the dietician Mathilde Gibeaux, president of the Miam association.
A specificity that comes from the fact that it is very low in acid, hence the sweet flavor that predominates. It’s also loaded with vitamins, trace elements and other minerals, perfect for keeping the peach going all summer long!
What are the health benefits of melon?
The melon is not only low in calories and very thirst-quenching. It has several benefits for our health.
>> It is packed with vitamin C. “With nearly 30 mg of vitamin C per 100 g, i.e. 30% of the recommended nutritional values or VNR, melon is interesting for boosting immunity and fighting against fatigue”, explains the dietician-nutritionist. Vitamin C also helps in the good absorption of iron contained in food. It also protects cells from oxidative stress and promotes normal energy metabolism.
>> It is rich in beta-carotene. The melon also contains a good dose of beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A and which gives it its pretty orange hue. “It displays 2,020 µg per 100 g, or 30% of the VNR, adds the specialist. This powerful antioxidant protects against free radicals, helps to slow down cellular aging and allows you to display a beautiful complexion”. Note that the more orange the fruit, the more it contains! “An Italian study shows that regularly consuming melon would halve the risk of later suffering from a cataract.”
>> It is packed with potassium. “This mineral is essential for the body since it participates, in particular, in nerve transmission as well as muscle and cardiac contraction” continues Mathilde Gibeaux.
Melon also contains selenium, which promotes normal functioning of the immune system and thyroid and protects cells against oxidative stress, but also iron, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine and boron . When we tell you that it’s a real mine, this melon!
What are the different varieties of melon?
- The most widespread in France is that of the Charentais type. There are 3 PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) for melon: Haut-Poitou, Quercy and Guadeloupe.
- The Canary melon, quite sweet, is elongated and bright yellow. Its flesh is white in color.
- The Galia, finally, is round and yellow, with a fine “embroidery” on its bark.
If the melon is enough on its own, its flavor is sublimated if you associate it with lemon juice, ginger, coriander, mint or basil. Find out how to prepare your melon in the slideshow above.
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