Is melon harmful? Useful properties of melon. Contraindications for eating melon

Hi all!

Oh, how I can't wait for melon season to begin! You would know, friends, how much I love melons! Mmmm...how tasty, aromatic, sweet, juicy they are! ☺

When the “melon season” begins, I would only eat them, honestly!

And I always dream of going somewhere in the East during this very season. They say that they are the real ones there! Truly tasty, aromatic and sweet like honey. That imported goods are no longer the same...

But, be that as it may, melon is the queen of fruits for me! ☺

By the way, for some reason I thought for a long time that the main value of melon was its taste, but it didn’t particularly shine with its benefits. I remember how surprised I was to learn that I was very mistaken!

Let's talk today about the benefits of melon. Maybe you will also be surprised to learn more about its properties ☺

From this article you will learn:

Common melon (lat. Cucumis melo, or Melo sativus)

– belongs to the genus Cucumber (lat. Cucumis), family Pumpkin (lat. Cucurbitaceae).

The cucumber genus includes about 25 species, distributed mainly in Africa.

Several species are found in Asia.

How is melon beneficial for the human body?

What does melon contain?

Melon fruits contain many biological active substances:

• up to 18% sugars,
• vitamins C, P, PP,
• provitamin A,
• folic and nicotinic acids,
• carotene,
• fats,
• mineral salts (sodium, silicon, especially a lot of iron and potassium),
• nitrogenous and aromatic substances,
• pectins,
• cellulose,
• starch.

Melon - beneficial properties

Melon fruits exhibit:

• choleretic,
• restorative,
• laxative (mild),
• cleansing action,
• improve hematopoietic processes,
• enhance intestinal motility,
• promotes the removal of cholesterol from the body and the resorption of tumors,
• normalize metabolism,
• relieve stress.
• pronounced diuretic, antisclerotic, sedative and calming effect on the nervous system.
• quench your thirst
• promote the production of the hormone serotonin.

So, let's start understanding the beneficial properties of melon in order - what is useful for melon:

1. Rejuvenates the body, prolongs youth.

A pleasant useful property, you will agree, friends. As for me, this “usefulness” alone is enough to eat it as often as possible ☺

It is really rich in vitamins, especially folic acid (vitamin B9), which is especially useful for women. And especially for pregnant women and breastfeeding infants. And for those who are just preparing for pregnancy, doctors advise them to “lean on” those foods that contain enough vitamin B9.

Well, melon will be just the thing to help – it’s tasty, sweet, and full of vitamins ☺

But regardless of whether you are preparing to become parents or not, melon is good for everyone, without exception, of course! Men, women, children, actively growing teenagers, elderly people.

Especially for those who are weakened by illness, are in the postoperative period, have a loss of strength, and have weak immunity. The melon takes on all these troubles! It is a super-strengthening agent for the body!

This property has long been known in the East and this “Asian beauty” is highly valued for it!

After all, it has very powerful antioxidant resources in its “arsenal”. With their help, it can easily completely destroy free radicals that prevent us from being young and healthy for a long time!

2. It improves the appearance and quality of the skin

Another great feature!

And all due to the fact that it has excellent diuretic and choleretic properties. It perfectly stimulates the functioning of the kidneys, liver, and gall bladder. All functions of these organs begin to work “conscientiously”, improving our appearance every day.

By the way, not only ingesting melon is suitable for this purpose.

Eastern beauties, who have long been famous for their porcelain skin, regularly use melon face masks!

A decoction of melon fruits in the form of lotions is considered good remedy against acne and freckles. It is also used to remove age spots.

The pulp of ripe melon fruits is used to lubricate the skin for vitiligo. Melon fruits are useful for baldness, psoriasis and other skin diseases.

Melon face mask:

Write down the recipe and enjoy it for your health!

• It is very simple: chop the melon pulp thoroughly. I do this in a blender, it’s very convenient! The consistency is then very comfortable to use. Add a spoonful of honey, a spoonful of milk, a spoonful of oatmeal to the crushed pulp. Apply to cleansed face, lie down and relax for 20 minutes.
• During these 20 minutes, you are prohibited from thinking about anything other than the fact that every minute you are becoming younger and younger!!!
• Then rinse off the mask with warm water, apply nourishing cream, look in the mirror and fall in love with your beautiful reflection again ☺

By the way, masks can only be made from one melon. The effect is amazing!

3. Cleanses the intestines

It contains a lot of pectins - special ones dietary fiber, which effectively clean out waste and toxins from the most inaccessible places in our intestines, and promote all unnecessary waste to the “exit”.

And a clean, well-functioning intestine is the key healthy body, strong immunity, youth, beauty!

4. Increases the level of joy, gives a good mood

Melon pulp contains special substances that help our body produce serotonin - the “hormone of happiness and pleasure.”

That's why when Bad mood– eat melon!

Good mood? Eat the melon anyway!

It will be even better!!! ☺

5. Veryusefulfor diseases of the heart and blood vessels!

It powerfully cleanses blood vessels of cholesterol, strengthens them, makes them elastic, cleanses the bloodstream of toxins, thins the blood, removes high blood pressure, which makes the work of a sick heart easier!

6. Contains a lot of silicon

Therefore, it improves the structure of hair, skin, and nails. Strengthens brain activity, improves performance nervous system, internal organs, digestive processes in the body.

7. Powerful strengthening of the immune system

It is believed that those who manage to eat enough melon during the season become “invulnerable” to all sorts of diseases during the winter cold!

Why melon is useful in folk medicine - recipes for use

The healing properties of the substances contained in the fruits of the melon have been used in folk medicine for a long time and very widely:

• melon fruit pulp was used for stomach diseases,
• various mental disorders,
• tuberculosis, scurvy and gout,
• as a tonic, diuretic, antirheumatic agent,
• and also as an anti-inflammatory, antitussive and anthelmintic.

A decoction of melon roots is used to cleanse the intestines.

An aqueous infusion of melon seeds in folk medicine is an effective diuretic for diseases of the kidneys, liver and bladder.

In addition, traditional healers prescribe a decoction of seeds in milk for urinary retention, bladder stones and kidney stones, as well as gonorrhea.

Melon seeds with honey (2 g to 5 g per day) are recommended to strengthen sexual function in men.

How to eat melon correctly?

Mostly, of course, fresh. They eat it just like that, prepare fruit salads with it, and make melon smoothies.

They boil melon jam, prepare melon honey, candied fruits, dry them and dry them.

Dried melon is considered an exquisite delicacy.

Calorie content of melon

Very often you can hear that, “I don’t eat melon, it makes you feel better”... It’s all nonsense!

The calorie content of melon is only 33 kcal. per 100 grams!

That’s how much you have to eat to get better from it! ☺ No, melon is a long-recognized dietary product!

Dried melon - yes, the calorie content here is higher - 344 kcal. per 100 grams, so don’t get carried away!

I would like to end today’s article with my favorite expression.

In the East they say: “Melon makes hair shiny, eyes young, lips fresh, desires strong, opportunities fulfilled, men desirable, and women beautiful!”

Glad to see you on the blog))

Even if you are not an ardent fan of melon, you should definitely include this undoubtedly healthy... not a fruit, no, in your diet during the season.

Despite the sweetness inherent in most melons, it is a false berry and belongs to the same genus as the cucumber, so it is a vegetable))

There is no doubt that melon is very beneficial for the body, it medicinal properties known for thousands of years.

Ancient healers, in particular Avicenna, treated their patients with pulp, seeds, juice and crusts, saving patients from gout, hemorrhoids, constipation, bladder and liver diseases, colds, and also “prescribing” them to nervous patients.

And in the ranking compiled by modern scientists who compared melon with other fruits based on the content of vitamins and microelements, this oriental fruit was in third place, leaving far behind the familiar apples and pears, which were at the end of the list, apples in 14th place, and pears in 15... although this didn’t make me love apples any less))

For information, kiwi was in 1st place in terms of vitamin content, papaya was in 2nd place.

Melon has a rich range of useful substances, among which you can find almost all known vitamins and a large number of microelements. And although the interest chemical composition varies greatly depending on the variety, the set of useful components will be the same.

Melon, benefits for the human body

Heart and blood vessels

A large amount of folic acid and iron allows melon to be used as a preventative against cardiovascular diseases, in particular atherosclerosis.

Hematopoiesis

It will be an indispensable assistant for treating anemia and regulating hemoglobin levels.

I completely agree with this recommendation, since I tried the therapeutic effect on myself when hemoglobin was low. Our stay in the hospital took place in August-September, with plenty of watermelons and melons, and compassionate relatives practically turned our room into a melon patch. I had to eat even when I didn’t really want to)) so as not to offend my family. As a result, hemoglobin was raised in record time.

I came across information that if you prepare juice using not only the pulp, but also the melon peel, then thanks to such a mixture, the important component of hematopoiesis, chlorophyll, will enter the body. Although I personally don’t think this idea is the most successful, it’s still quite a task to thoroughly wash the rough skin of a fruit, well, if only with the help of hot water...

Digestive tract

It has a beneficial effect on the digestive tract, since melon contains a lot of fiber, beloved by the intestinal microflora, and silicon, an assistant not only for the intestines, but for all internal organs.

Brain and nervous system

In addition, silicon has a beneficial effect on the cerebral cortex, and together with B vitamins, also contained in the pulp, can calm the nerves.

In the fight against stress, melon supports the “happiness hormone” serotonin and a special enzyme that helps fight irritability, fatigue and insomnia.

Strengthening the body

What else is melon good for the human body?

This melon culture contains a large amount of vitamin C, I read that there is even more of it than in an orange, so protection against infections, strengthening the immune system and increasing vitality are ensured.

I came across specific information on the content of vitamin C regarding Cantaloupe melon (apparently this variety is the richest in this vitamin): 200 grams of pulp contains 125% of the daily value of vitamin C and more than 50% of vitamin A.

This is what Cantaloupe looks like.

It’s a pity that in our regions it is rarely found on sale; I personally have never seen it among the melon assortment represented by the Torpeda and Kolkhoznitsa varieties.

Tumors

Melon pulp also contains lycopene, which has the ability to prevent the formation of malignant tumors. The most “capable” in terms of such prevention turned out to be, again, Cantaloupe (musk melon); it can prevent cancer of the rectum and colon.

Appearance

The same lycopene, in tandem with silicon, has a beneficial effect on beauty. Slows down the aging process, prevents the appearance of wrinkles, and fights the teenage problem of acne. And silicon has a beneficial effect on hair.

Melon, in principle, can be called a beauty product; it contains a rich set of B vitamins that help cope with rashes and dandruff.

For those who are worried about whether melon is bad for their figure, there is good news; despite the inherent sweetness of the melon and the sugar content of 16 to 20%, melon is considered a dietary product.

100 grams of melon pulp contains, depending on the variety, only 30-38 kilocalories.

Due to the high content of plant fiber, melon creates a feeling of fullness for a long time, even from just a few pieces eaten. Plus, it contains substances that help break down excess fat, which is why the melon diet is considered effective for weight loss and helps cleanse the body of toxins.

Genitourinary system

As therapeutic nutrition nutritionists prescribe a melon diet for liver and kidney diseases, in particular urolithiasis; the iron and potassium salts contained in melon, as well as the above-mentioned vitamins C and B9, help cope with these diseases.

Melon slices have a diuretic effect, which is why it is used in melon mono-diets and when cleansing the body, during which toxic substances are washed out of the body.

But this is not all the beneficial properties of this melon crop; it is considered a powerful aphrodisiac, but you just need to know that you should not eat melon pulp, but fresh seeds, which are chewed, mixed with honey.

As an option, they eat powder made from melon seeds, the daily dose of which is 100 grams, divided into two doses, morning and evening.

By the way, melon seeds turned out to be such a useful “product” that information about them deserves a separate short story.

“Oriental beauty” also contains pectins, nicotinic acid PP, potassium and calcium, and carotene.

Harm of melon

As with other vegetables and fruits about the set harmful properties there is no need to talk about melon, rather it will be contraindications that exist for certain diseases and restrictions on methods of administration.

Who should use melon with caution?

• Suffering from diabetes due to high sugar content.
• For those who have problems with digestive tract(ulcer, gastritis). Fruits that are not yet ripe enough are specially prohibited.
• Nursing mothers should also use melon with caution, as it can cause stomach upset in the baby.

As for the rules for eating oriental beauty.

What can you not eat melon with?

It does not combine with fermented milk products and alcohol.

It’s interesting that after eating melon, you shouldn’t drink it. cold water, otherwise you may get an upset stomach.

How to eat melon correctly, before or after meals

It, like fruits, is not eaten after meals, but it should not be eaten on an empty stomach either.

So the safest option is to enjoy it between meals.

Be careful when handling fruits with damaged skins, as they can cause salmonellosis and botulism. But this is already from the “” series.

There is an Eastern parable about how, having rolled out of the hands of one of the spirits, heavenly heaven a melon entered the human world. The heavenly fruit, which gave pleasure only to the gods and the righteous, came to people. The taste of melon, as well as its healing effect on mortals, was amazing, and since those distant times in the East, these sweet fruits with tender, melting pulp have been revered and grown.

Today you can taste the “divine fruit” without waiting for a gift from heaven and without traveling to Asia Minor and Central Asia, where melons are rightfully revered and loved. You can feel the benefits of melon for the body by buying your favorite pumpkin in a store or growing the fragrant fruit on your own.

Chemical composition of melon

In the East, melons often become the main food, a way to quench thirst and strengthen strength during religious fasts and simply on hot days.

Crispy or, depending on the variety, tender melon pulp not only replenishes moisture reserves, but also improves well-being, gives vigor and lifts your spirits.

What determines the health benefits of melon and what is the harm from consuming it? In addition to the fact that 90% of melon consists of water, 100 grams of juicy pulp contains 0.6 grams of protein, a negligible amount of fat and 7.4 grams of carbohydrates. With this composition, the calorie content of a 100-gram slice of ripe fruit is 35 kcal.

But besides nutritional value, melon also has a unique biochemical composition, the main active ingredients of which are: ascorbic acid, iron, fiber, vitamin A and carotenoids, present in the fruits of a bright, orange color. What else is melon good for the human body?

A slice of melon, eaten as a light dessert, will help replenish your supply:

• vitamins, including compounds such as vitamin E and PP, B1, B2 and B5, B6 and B9;
• sodium, potassium and magnesium, chlorine and sulfur, phosphorus, present in the form of macroelements;
• iron, iodine, manganese and cobalt, silicon and zinc, in the form of trace elements;
• valuable organic and amino acids.

An average serving of melon dessert, weighing about 150 grams, can provide the body with 45% daily requirement vitamin C, a tenth of the iron and retinol consumed per day.

This dish is a significant supplement of potassium and magnesium, sodium and calcium, tocopherol, niacin and fiber, which are important for life support. The undoubted benefits of melon for the body are also due to easily digestible carbohydrates, which quickly replenish energy reserves and relieve fatigue.

How is melon beneficial for the human body?

The healing properties of melons, including melons, have been well known since ancient times. The benefits of melon for the body and the harm possible with its thoughtless consumption were described by the greatest physician and scientist of the East, Avicenna.

Today, based on the data obtained from the biochemical analysis of sweet fruits, we can talk about the use of melon and its seeds for the treatment of a wide range of human diseases. The fruits are also used as an effective prevention of atherosclerosis, colds, nervous disorders and genitourinary diseases.

Ancient folk recipes have survived to this day, where melon is used as a remedy against hemorrhoids and constipation, gout and other ailments. A slice of melting pulp that gives freshness helps you calm down and come to your senses after a difficult, busy day.

The effectiveness and usefulness of melon for the body is determined not only by its composition, but also by the fact that all substances are easily absorbed, practically without having any negative or irritating effect.

Without the slightest harm, melon, useful for women and men, thanks to its fiber, cleanses the intestines of harmful accumulations, activates digestive processes, and prevents cholesterol from accumulating on the walls of blood vessels. This and effective prevention disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, and a way to prevent heart and vascular diseases.

Compared to other crops growing on melons, melon contains significantly more ascorbic acid, which is beneficial for the body. This explains its active immunomodulatory, tonic and anti-inflammatory effect. In combination, the substances contained in the pulp cause:

• calming and invigorating effect, fatigue and irritability disappear, sleep normalizes;
• stimulation of metabolic processes, blood composition improves, which helps cope with anemia, depression and decreased performance;
• beneficial effect on the cerebral cortex.

The juicy pulp has a rejuvenating, tonic effect when used externally, which is why melon is beneficial for the body of women and those who take care of their appearance men. The ability of melon to activate intestinal activity and facilitate cleansing of the body is used for constipation, as well as in the fight against excess weight.

How is melon beneficial for a woman’s body?

Melon is an excellent helper for women who want to maintain external attractiveness for many years and feel fit and healthy throughout their lives.

Melon is good for female body not only high in vitamins, antioxidants and amino acids, but also in the presence of silicon:

• has a positive effect on the condition of hair, nails and skin;
• playing an important role in metabolic and digestive processes;
• having an active effect on the nervous system, mental activity and performance.

During pregnancy, melon in reasonable quantities helps to more easily endure all the hardships associated with changes in physical condition.

The laxative and diuretic effect helps reduce the risk of developing toxicosis and edema, and facilitates bowel movements.

Sweet melon, rich in vitamins, is useful for a woman’s body and thanks to the ability to easily and pleasantly replenish the supply of microelements and other active substances.

The content of melon is extremely important. folic acid:

• supporting hormonal levels;
• regulating mood swings not only during pregnancy, but also during menopause;
• strengthening memory and.

However, despite the many benefits of melon for women, harm from eating the fruit is also possible. It is especially dangerous to eat fruits of dubious origin during pregnancy, because the nitrates and other toxic compounds that accumulate in them can cause serious damage to the health of both the mother and the unborn baby. The same applies to breastfeeding women.

Since melon has a laxative effect, and brightly colored varieties can cause an allergic reaction, these factors must be taken into account during breastfeeding so that the baby does not feel this effect of melon through milk.

What are the benefits of melon for men?

The stronger half of humanity can feel the beneficial effects of melon culture on well-being. For men, melon is useful primarily because of its zinc content, which has a positive effect on sperm quality.

In addition, due to the content of iron and other active elements, melon improves blood composition, increases performance, calms and has a positive effect on a man’s stability in stressful situations and self-esteem.

Contraindications for consuming melon

The health hazards of melon, as well as the benefits of the fruit, are due to the high content of bioactive substances in all parts of the melon crop, and especially in the pulp and seeds of the plant.

And although there are no strict contraindications to taking melon, you should avoid eating large amounts of sweet fruit if a person has been diagnosed with the following diseases:

• gastrointestinal tract, especially associated with inflammatory and infectious processes, including peptic ulcer and gastritis;
• pancreas, gall bladder and genitourinary tract, accompanied during an exacerbation by the passage of large stones and sand;
• diabetes mellitus or there is a risk of developing it.

You should not eat melon on an empty stomach or after a hearty meal.

It is much more correct to enjoy a couple of slices 2-3 hours after eating, without adding it to dessert or washing it down with water, dairy drinks and alcohol, since such proximity to melon is not healthy, but harmful to health.

The benefits and harms of melon - video

There are few women who do not like melon taste and aroma. However, not everyone realizes that it can not only be eaten raw. Let's find out what the benefits of melon are for the female body, how it can be used for medical, cosmetic and culinary purposes.

The calorie content and chemical composition of 100 g of the edible part of melon are presented in the table.

Indicators	Meaning
Calorie content, kcal	35
Proteins, g	0,6
Fats, g	0,3
Carbohydrates, g	7,4
Dietary fiber, g	0,9
Water, g	90
Ash, g	0,6
Organic acids, g	0,2
Vitamins
C, mg	20
B4, mg	7,6
B3 (PP), mg	0,5
B5, mg	0,23
E, mg	0,1
B6, mg	0,06
B1, mg	0,04
B2, mg	0,04
A, µg	67
B9, mcg	6
K, µg	2,9
Macroelements, mg
Potassium	118
Chlorine	50
Sodium	32
Calcium	16
Magnesium	13
Phosphorus	12
Sulfur	10
Microelements
Iron, mg	1
Zinc, mg	0,09
Manganese, mg	0,035
Copper, µg	47
Fluorine, mcg	20
Iodine, mcg	2
Cobalt, µg	2
Selenium, mcg	0,7

The calorie content of 100 g of melon is about 2% of the daily calorie requirement, while such a portion can provide a fifth of the need for vitamin C and cobalt.

Benefits and medicinal properties

• Melon is beneficial for the female body because:
• Contains small amounts of sucrose, glucose, fructose, which are necessary for brain function.
• The composition contains a small part of saturated fatty acids necessary for the formation of energy and cells.
• The use of Omega-3, which is present in the product, leads to stress resistance, the production of the hormone of happiness, and the elimination of depression. In combination with Omega-6, they participate in cell structure.
• The dietary fiber contained helps to activate the intestines, which is useful when losing weight.
• Vitamin C has a beneficial effect on iron absorption and immunity.
• Cobalt is necessary for the body to metabolize folic acid, which is especially needed by pregnant women so that the child’s nervous system develops normally.
• The presence of water in the composition leads to a diuretic effect.
• According to cosmetologists, it has a positive effect on the skin of the face and décolleté.
• Can cure some diseases.

Did you know? The melon is a relative of the cucumber; they belong to the same genus.

• Consumption of melon is contraindicated:
• For patients with diabetes, the glucose contained can cause an increase in blood sugar levels.
• For allergy sufferers - the product may cause an allergic reaction.
• For those who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract, fermentation in the intestines caused by large amounts of sugar can lead to bloating. Melon seeds are also prohibited.
• Women on breastfeeding- getting into breast milk, the product provokes colic in babies and can cause allergies.
• On an empty stomach - this is how sweetness can have an aggressive effect on the intestines.
• Together with other products, especially fermented milk, alcoholic drinks, water, it can cause diarrhea.
• If it is sold in July, nitrates are used for early ripening, which have a negative effect on the woman’s body.

You should avoid unlimited consumption of this sweet:

1. For those who watch their figure- this way you can exceed your daily calorie intake.
2. Pregnant- despite the benefits, unlimited consumption can cause bloating, and this leads to the tone of the uterus and increased pressure inside it.

Application

Melon is widely used in:

• traditional medicine;
• cosmetology;
• cooking.

Did you know? Oil is made from melon seeds, and sugar is obtained from the pulp, and its production is easier and cheaper than from beets or cane.

In folk medicine

Traditional medicine knows the following recipes based on melon:

1. To control blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus- Dry 3 tablespoons of melon seeds in the oven or at room temperature, pour 3 cups of boiling water, leave at room temperature until cool. Divide into 3 doses, consume before meals.
2. To alleviate the condition of urolithiasis- Pour 1 kg of melon seeds into 5 liters of water, bring to a boil, reduce heat, wait until the water level drops to 3 liters. After cooling, strain and place in a cool place. dark place. Take 0.5 cups three times a day, 0.5 hours before meals, and warm before use.
3. For stones in the genitourinary system A simpler recipe is also used - boil 3 liters of water, cool until warm. Grind 1 glass of melon seeds in a mortar in the evening, add prepared water, leave until the morning, strain. Use every time you feel thirsty.
4. For men to increase potency- Dry the melon seeds, grind them into powder, eat 1 tablespoon of the powder mixed with the same amount of honey before bed.
5. For men with prostate diseases- boil 8 glasses of water, cool until room temperature. Dry 1 cup of melon seeds and grind into powder. Gradually add water and rub thoroughly. Strain and add sugar to taste. Take 50 ml before each meal.
6. For cough treatment- as in the previous recipe.
7. To relieve cholecystitis- Dry the melon seeds and grind them into powder. Boil 3 glasses of milk, add 3 teaspoons of the product, reduce heat, cook, stirring for 3 minutes. Remove from heat, cool, divide into 3 portions.

In cosmetology

Cosmetologists use melon in the following cases:

1. When preparing a mask for combination skin- Peel a small piece of melon from the peel and seeds, mash to a pulp, spread on the face, except the skin around the eyes, for 20 minutes, rinse.
2. To moisturize facial skin- Mix 2 tablespoons of melon pulp mashed to a puree with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of sour cream for oily skin or the same amount of natural yogurt without additives for oily skin. Apply 1-2 times a week for 20 minutes, rinse.
3. For cleansing facial skin- cut the melon, drain the resulting juice, mix in equal proportions with mineral water and milk, store in the refrigerator. Wipe your face every evening, then rinse.

   Important! Cosmetologists recommend rinsing off melon-based masks with warm water.

4. For toning- mix 1 tablespoon of melon juice with the same amount of grape juice, apply to the skin of the face, except for the area around the eyes, for 20 minutes, rinse.
5. For a lifting effect- Mash 2 tablespoons of melon pulp with a fork, add 1 yolk, grind well, pour in 1 tablespoon of sesame or olive oil, stir until smooth. Apply with a cotton swab for 20 minutes, rinse.
6. For whitening- dry the melon pulp, chop it, add powder from crushed dried melon seeds. Add milk powder until it becomes mushy. Apply to cleansed facial skin 1-2 times a week for 20 minutes, rinse.
7. For a calming effect- boil 1 glass of water, pour 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers with water, leave for 20 minutes, strain. Mash the melon pulp, add a little chamomile infusion to make a paste. Apply for 20 minutes 1-2 times a week, rinse.
8. To remove pigment spots- Dry 1 tablespoon of melon seeds and grind into powder. Mash 1 tablespoon of melon pulp, add the resulting powder. Gradually add oatmeal, kneading to obtain a paste. Apply for 20 minutes 1-2 times a week, rinse.
9. For wrinkles- Rub 2 cups of melon pulp through a sieve, add 1 cup of almond or sesame oil. Cook over low heat, stirring until the juice evaporates. Once finished, you can add pink petals there. Apply to the face before bed, can be used around the eyes. Blot off excess with a napkin.
10. For hair, nails and hand skin care- boil 1 glass of water, add 1 tablespoon of melon seeds, reduce heat, cook for 2-3 minutes, cool. Use to rinse washed hair or make hand baths.

In cooking

The taste of melon is best revealed in its raw form; its pulp can be added when preparing fruit salads. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails are prepared with melon, and it is served with prosciutto. Those who want to prepare it for the winter make jam, jam, marmalade or dry pieces of pulp.

Important! Melon seeds in large quantities can harm the spleen; they are also not consumed sprouted due to toxicity.

From the above it follows that melon can be used in various fields - medicine, cooking, cosmetology. It is rich in vitamin C, cobalt, and other beneficial substances. But this product can bring not only benefits, but also harm to a woman’s health, especially if used uncontrolled.

She excites and intoxicates with her honey aroma, you want to sing praises in her honor... Her Majesty Melon brings both children and adults into gastronomic ecstasy! Even animals eat the sweet fruit with pleasure, purring and licking their lips. The birthplace of melon is considered to be Middle and Asia Minor, and for the first time it is mentioned in the Bible. But is this bright yellow fruit as harmless as it seems at first glance? You will find the whole truth about the benefits and harms of melon in this article!

Melon is a berry or fruit

The first question worth answering is whether melon is a fruit, berry or, in general, a vegetable. It is more common to call it a fruit - it is aromatic, juicy and sweet, suitable for fruit salads. But the fruit does not grow on a tree, like an ordinary fruit, but on the ground, like a berry. Just like berries, melons have a juicy center and hard seeds.

But from a biological point of view, melon is a vegetable. It is the edible fruit of a herbaceous plant, which is typical of vegetables. She has root system, similar to cucumber root, as well as leaves similar in shape, color and texture.

Popular questions

How many melons can you eat at one time?, in the absence of contraindications? The optimal dose for an adult is 300 g. For children - 100-200 g, depending on age and weight.

Melon for pancreatitis: is it possible or not? In severe cases of this disease, use of the product is prohibited. In easy and chronic form consultation with a doctor is required.

Can you eat melon if you have gastritis? Nutritionists and doctors do not recommend introducing melon into the diet if gastritis is diagnosed. Only a gastroenterologist can give an exact answer to this question.

At what age can it be given to children? Melon is a difficult product to digest, so there is no need to rush to introduce it to your child’s body. Introduce into the diet fragrant berry Possible from 1.5-2 years old, if there is no allergy to it.

Is melon a berry or a fruit? There is no consensus on this issue. It belongs to the Pumpkin family, its fruit is pumpkin, which can be classified as a vegetable. But in many sources its fruits are called fruits and berries.

Composition and calorie content of melon

Next interest Ask– how many calories are in melon. The calorie content of melon per 100 grams is only 33 kcal. It contains 0.6 g of protein, 0.3 g of fat and 7.4 g of carbohydrates. It contains the following minerals:

• magnesium;
• potassium;
• calcium;
• zinc;
• manganese;
• copper;
• iron;
• fluorine;
• phosphorus;
• sodium.

The fruit also contains a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is typical for fruits and vegetables.

What vitamins are in melon

The benefits of melon for the body are largely due to the presence of vitamins in it. Despite the fact that most of the weight of the fruit is water, it is rich in vitamins A, group B, C, E, H, PP.

Melon for children

• Vitamin C will help improve your child’s immunity before autumn.
• Vitamin A will strengthen eyesight, especially if the child reads a lot and spends time looking at screens.
• Melon helps relieve constipation and improves intestinal motility.
• Elevates mood, calms the nervous system.

Melon absorbs nitrates very easily. They have a negative effect on the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and contribute to allergic reactions. The least amount of such substances is contained in fruits purchased at the height of the season.

Useful properties of melon

Now let’s look at what health benefits the product has:

1. The ability to saturate, provide energy, lift your spirits and improve your emotional state.
2. Cleansing the skin, strengthening hair, blood vessel walls and nerve fibers - all thanks to silicon.
3. Improving intestinal function and digestion of food in general due to the large amount of fiber.
4. Normalization energy processes in the body, which is provided by vitamins PP and folic acid.
5. Improving the appearance of the skin, for which B vitamins are responsible.
6. The mild diuretic effect that melon juice has.
7. Strengthening the nervous system thanks to B vitamins, potassium and silicon.
8. Beneficial effects on the heart and blood quality provided by vitamins B1 and B2.
9. Support immune system thanks to vitamins A and C.

It’s worth talking separately about the beneficial properties for men’s and women’s health.

What are the benefits of melon for men?

Men can use melon products to treat prostate diseases. The fruit also contains zinc, which improves sperm quality.

The benefits of melon for women

Folic acid in the composition alleviates the difficulties of pregnancy and menopause. Thanks to silicon, the condition of the skin improves: rashes and irritation disappear, wrinkles are smoothed out. A-antioxidants are also beneficial for the skin - they increase elasticity and prevent the appearance of stretch marks.

Melon for weight loss

The fruit is suitable as a component of the diet due to its low calorie content. The diuretic effect, which relieves swelling, as well as the ability to remove toxins will also be useful.

Important! Despite its low calorie content, melon contains carbohydrates, the daily amount of which is important to monitor when losing weight.

The fruit consists of 90% water, so it saturates well without overloading the body with extra calories.

The beneficial qualities of vegetable seeds are widely used in folk medicine. They have the following valuable properties:

• Used to cleanse the liver, kidneys and intestines;
• They are an aphrodisiac, improve potency and function of the prostate gland;
• Effectively used to treat cough and bronchitis;
• Reduce blood sugar levels;
• Used in cosmetology. They have rejuvenating properties for the skin.
• Helps in the treatment of cholecystitis.

Read more about the benefits of melon seeds and possible harm on this page.

Is it possible to eat melon during pregnancy?

This unique vegetable is beneficial for the body of the expectant mother and child due to the following properties:

1. Increasing hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen and supplying it to the fetus.
2. Improves intestinal motility, which helps eliminate toxins and combat constipation.
3. Removing fluid from the body, thereby reducing swelling.

However, it is not recommended to use the product in the 1st and 3rd trimester of pregnancy due to possible harm. Increased intestinal peristalsis can cause an increase in myometrial tone. Therefore, there is a possibility of miscarriage at short terms or premature birth in the 3rd trimester.

Melon for pregnant women

• Vegetables contribute to the production of the “happiness hormone”, which helps women expecting a child to be in good mood. This is very important for the pregnant woman and her baby. After all, negative moods and experiences are passed on to the unborn child.
• Relieves constipation, which is so typical during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. The fetus becomes large and puts pressure on certain areas of the intestine, which disrupts peristalsis.
• Increases the amount of hemoglobin. Pregnant women very often face the problem of low iron in the blood.
• Vitamin E and A in melon help improve the condition of nails, hair and skin. During pregnancy, the fetus takes many vitamins and microelements from the mother's body. The product will help partially restore losses.

After birth, the melon goes from useful product harmful (only for nursing mothers). Because it causes bloating in the baby.

The vegetable can be given to children over 1.5-2 years old, starting with a small dose.

Melon during breastfeeding

A nursing mother can eat melon, observing certain conditions:

1. The first portion should be eaten in the morning and in small quantities to check the child’s reaction.
2. The fruit should be eaten separately from other foods, as a separate meal.
3. It is important not to overeat - even the most harmless food in large quantities can be harmful.
4. It is advisable to eat melon during its ripening season. You should avoid eating imported fruits, and instead receive the benefits of candied melon.

The body of every woman and child is individual, so in any specific case it is important to take into account the doctor’s recommendations.

Botanical description

Melon is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. A close relative of cucumbers. The plant spreads along the ground in shoots. They can reach 3 meters. Flowering occurs at the beginning of summer. At the end of flowering the fruit is set. He will sleep for about three months. As a result, berries (pumpkins) weighing from 1 to 10 kilograms are formed. It may be yellow or light yellow on the outside.
There are varieties that have green or white rind. Inside the fruit there are light beige seeds. They are used for planting plants for the next year, and are also used in folk medicine. Melon grows during the warm period; the optimal temperature for growing it is from +25 to +35 oC. In order for the fruits to be large and juicy, the plant must be watered in a timely manner.

Is melon harmful for pancreatitis?

With this disease, eating fruit is not allowed, and there are several reasons for this:

1. The product increases the amount of gastric juice, which harms the pancreas.
2. Fiber and sugars cause a fermentation process, which causes profuse stool, gas formation and discomfort.
3. Carbohydrates, of which the fetus mainly consists, load the endocrine structures of the pancreas.

During the remission stage, the product can be eaten in the form of jelly or mousse. If there are no negative effects, then small pieces of the fruit can be consumed fresh, but not earlier than a week after the exacerbation.

Rules for selection and storage

It is necessary to select only whole berries with intact skin. The fruits should not be rotten; in this case, the option of “cutting off the spoiled” does not need to be considered. The surface of the melon must be without flaws.

Basic quantity useful microelements are found in fresh fruits. The fruit should be slightly elastic to the touch, and the melon should have a pleasant rich smell. If even slight unpleasant aromas are felt, then the melon is already spoiled.

You can store a melon for a long time only if its surface is intact. This can be done in the basement, on the loggia, in any dark and cool room. The storage period for early varieties is 30 days, mid-season - 90 days, late-ripening - up to six months. To prevent the pulp from turning sour, the already cut melon can be placed in the refrigerator. Storage time - no more than 2 days.

Dried and dried melon is perfectly preserved. The difference between them is that in the dried state a small amount of moisture remains, while in the dried state there is none. Dry the slices in the oven for about 1 day. The pieces are laid out on a baking sheet, dried for 7 hours at a temperature of 80 °C, then it is reduced to 55 °C.

Melon is a magnificent fruit that has amazing taste and a large supply of positive vitamins and microelements that have a beneficial effect on the human body.

WHY IS MELON GOLD for health?

The benefits and harms of dried melon

Dried melon is no less healthy than fresh: it retains all the valuable components. It is thanks to them that the product has beneficial properties:

1. These dried fruits will have a beneficial effect on the condition of bones, hair, heart and blood vessels.
2. The product contains a large amount of dietary fiber, which cleanses the intestines of waste products.
3. A special enzyme contained in dried fruits helps with stress, insomnia, and restores strength.

However, due to the high amount of sugar, diabetics should be careful with the dried fruit. Dried fruits, like fresh ones, can lead to eating disorders due to poor compatibility with other foods.

Popular varieties and hybrids

Ethiopian

A very popular variety with large fruits of 3-5 kg. Pumpkin has a pleasant delicate and bright taste, high sugar content, beautiful appearance and high commercial qualities. The fruits of the Ethiopian variety do not crack under the sun. The plant is resistant to drought and high humidity. Perfect for growing by both professionals and novice gardeners.

Torpedo

One of the best varieties melon, which has the shape of a “torpedo”. It is excellently grown not only in the homeland of the variety, in Uzbekistan, but also in Russia. The berries have an incredible delicate, sweet melon aroma with notes of pineapple and duchess. The taste is also at a high level. Variety late date ripening, demanding a large number of sunny days. The size of the vegetable is impressive.

Collective farmer

The time-tested melon variety Kolkhoznitsa continues to delight us with its unpretentiousness in cultivation and excellent taste. The variety is mid-season, so it has time to ripen in many regions of our country. The more sun there is when growing a collective farm plant, the sweeter and more aromatic the fruits.

Gulyabi

The beautiful yellow-lemon and orange fruits of this variety have a large amount of vitamins and nutrients. The pulp is dense, juicy, aromatic with a very sweet taste. The variety is a late variety, its fruits reach 6-8 kg. Gulyabi is demanding of light and timely watering.

Beneficial properties of melon juice

Melon juice is a healthy and nutritious drink that quenches thirst well and has a positive effect on the body:

• improves kidney function;
• cleanses the body of chemotherapy products;
• has a diuretic effect;
• relieves joint pain.

Juice is especially useful for older people. The components in its composition prevent the deterioration of memory and concentration and rejuvenate the body. The juice is prepared not only from the pulp of the fruit, but also from its peel - this drink has an anti-stress effect thanks to essential oils.

conclusions

The numerous benefits of melon are obvious. Doctors advise everyone who has no contraindications to use the product. In order not to cause harm to the body, you should follow the recommendations for use and choose and store the product correctly. Melon improves immunity before autumn, has a diuretic effect, removes harmful toxic substances from the body, and improves intestinal health. The fruit helps to overcome an allergic reaction to pollen; it reduces the number of allergens in the body and alleviates the general condition. Melon is also recommended for weight loss. It has low calorie content and enough carbohydrates to saturate the body.

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Melon

Benefit or harm?

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Application in cosmetology

Masks based on fruit pulp rejuvenate and moisturize the skin, soothe irritation, and also make hair beautiful and healthy.

Face masks

To nourish the skin 2 tbsp. l. pureed pulp should be mixed with 1 tsp. honey and apply to facial skin. Keep the mask on for about 30 minutes.

To get rid of irritation, you need to mix a mashed piece of fruit pulp with 1 tbsp. l. cream cheese and 1 tsp. pumpkin oil The product is kept on the face for 15 minutes and removed with a cotton pad soaked in milk.

Melon for hair

To soften and moisturize your hair, you need to mix a few pieces of melon, 100 g of cognac and 150 g of strong black coffee. Apply the mask to clean and slightly damp hair, rubbing it into the roots. You can wash off the product after 40 minutes.

To strengthen your hair, you can make a mask based on melon juice, butter and sour cream. Mix half a glass of juice with 1 tbsp. l. olive oil and 1 tbsp. l. sour cream. The product is applied to the hair and left for 40 minutes.

Benefits for the body and medicinal properties

For constipation

• Melon has a laxative effect.

Recipe. Consume melon in the morning on an empty stomach in an acceptable quantity.

For weight loss

Fiber stimulates intestinal function. Helps break down excess fats and remove their breakdown products. This helps to reduce excess weight.

How to use.

Eat 2-3 slices of melon several times a day.

The cardiovascular system

• Melon improves heart function due to the elements it contains: potassium, sodium, magnesium. These microelements are necessary to maintain the tone of the walls of blood vessels.
• Reduces blood pressure in hypertension.
• The vegetable is involved in the removal of harmful cholesterol from the human body.

Recipe: Eat a few slices a day.

Genitourinary system

• Helps get rid of stones, sand in the kidneys and bladder. The main thing is not to overdo it. Melon has a diuretic effect and helps remove salts and sand from the body.

Recipe: just a couple of pieces fresh vegetable per day will help gradually dissolve small kidney stones. You can drink juice from the vegetable.

For women

• Improves fertile function in women, helps to get pregnant.

Recipe: drink melon juice in an acceptable amount, or eat several berries.

For men

• Melon seeds are considered an aphrodisiac for men.

How to use: Pour 330 g of fruit seeds into 1.6 liters of water. Boil until 1 liter of liquid remains. Next, strain the broth and cool. Drink 100 ml warm half an hour before meals.

The benefits of melon for the nervous system

• The B vitamins contained in the product lift your mood and stimulate the production of the “happiness hormone”. Helps cope with stress and get out of depression.

Recipe: A few pieces of melon a day will help maintain a good mood.

Circulatory system

• Improves blood condition and blood formation function due to the iron content in it. Used for iron deficiency and B12 deficiency anemia.

How to use: For these purposes, it is best to use vegetable juice made from the pulp.

The immune system

• Vitamin C, of ​​which there is a large amount in the berry, increases immunity. It also helps cope with acute respiratory infections. Has an antihistamine effect, reduces the reaction to pollen.

Recipe: To improve immunity, you can use melon in all possible forms: juices, decoctions, infusions, the pulp itself. To relieve skin allergy symptoms, add a glass of fruit juice to your bath water. The procedure lasts 15-20 minutes.

During metabolism

• Melon is beneficial for gout - it removes uric acid salts from the body.

Recipe: include vegetables in your diet.

Fasting days

For obesity, liver and cardiovascular diseases, nutritionists recommend arranging melon fasting days. At which the amount of melon consumed should be 2 kg per day. The entire mass must be divided into 7 doses, 300 g each.

For kidney diseases

Diuretic for kidney pathologies: pour 2 tablespoons of dry melon seeds into 0.5 liters of boiling water. Cover the container with a lid and leave for 3 hours. Next, strain the liquid and cool. Drink the entire infusion in equal doses throughout the day as tea.

Use of melon in cooking

Most often, the product is eaten fresh, as an independent dish. In addition, you can make preserves, jam, and marmalade from melon. Compote is also made from the pulp of the fruit, and candied fruits are prepared from the peel. Melon marmalade is also delicious.

Attention! Eating melon with fermented milk products and alcohol is extremely undesirable - this will cause unpleasant consequences for the stomach and intestines.

Using seeds

Both melon pulp and its seeds have medicinal qualities. About them healing properties known since ancient times. Vitamin composition they have the same, but in less concentration. Eating seeds as a natural medicine is as popular today as it was in ancient times.

Benefits of seeds:

1. They normalize intestinal function, help the functioning of the liver, and have a cleansing effect on the digestive system.
2. Works as a natural choleretic and diuretic.
3. During bronchitis, cough and respiratory diseases, they promote the release of phlegm and speed up recovery.
4. Since ancient times, melon seeds have been considered an effective aphrodisiac and a remedy that can treat various male diseases. For this purpose, the seeds were finely crushed and eaten 1 small spoon 3 times a day.
5. The seeds are quite high in calories (550 kcal per 100 g of product), but due to their ability to reduce blood sugar, taking them helps diabetics control weight.
6. You can give melon seeds to babies. The content of useful microelements and vitamins in their composition has a positive effect on the development of the child, helps improve memory and thought processes.

It turns out MELMON SEEDS are incredibly good for your health! How to use them?

Despite the fact that the benefits of seeds are quite high, there are also contraindications to their consumption:

1. It is forbidden to consume the seeds on an empty stomach, especially for people who have problems with the spleen.
2. Constant and irregular consumption can provoke weight gain. If you have a tendency to be overweight, you should not overuse this product.
3. Sprouted melon seeds will only cause harm, since they contain a different ratio of microelements.
4. During pregnancy, it is not recommended to consume seeds, since they contain folic acid, which negatively affects the development of the fetus and will not benefit the unborn child.
5. It is not recommended to consume the seeds if you have an ulcer or serious pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.
6. You should not simultaneously eat melon seeds, honey, alcoholic beverages, and fermented milk products.

Attention: It is forbidden to eat seeds of unripe fruits.

How to choose a melon

To choose a tasty and healthy fruit, it is important to consider the following recommendations:

1. There should be no dents or stains on the peel.
2. The aroma of the ripe fruit is pleasant and sweet, and does not smell like grass.
3. If possible, it is advisable to look at the color of the pulp - the richer it is, the riper and healthier the fruit.
4. A high-quality fruit produces a dull, dense sound if its surface is lightly patted.
5. The stalk and its attachment point must be dry.

The peel of the fruit on the opposite side from the stalk should be easy to press. This suggests that the melon was ripened in the melon field, and was not picked while still green. It is best to buy the product in August-September in trusted places.

General information

Melon contains many useful substances, but it contains more vitamin C than any citrus fruit. The composition contains organic amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, food enzymes and fiber, a large list of various minerals and vitamins. The sweet taste has different shades, it can be: honey, nutmeg, apple, vanilla or pear.

Also, depending on the variety, the peel has different texture and color. The flesh of the fruit can be yellow, white, red, orange, and the melon itself can be of various shapes and sizes. Great aroma and taste brings everything together varietal species, of which there are more than 7 thousand.

Melon is a berry, a fruit, and a vegetable. It can be considered a fruit as it is large and sweet. At the same time, it is sometimes positioned as a berry, since it meets all the characteristics - it is a multi-seeded fruit that has juicy pulp.

But if we consider the botanical classification, then the melon is a pumpkin. This is the name of the herbaceous fruit, which consists of many seeds, has a hard peel and juicy pulp, and can grow to large sizes. Despite its botanical characteristics, melon is popularly called a berry or fruit. These everyday names have successfully taken root among gardeners, summer residents and lovers of the sweet fruit.

Melon: BENEFITS AND HARM

Melon harm and contraindications

In addition to the benefits, the product can also cause harm to the body:

1. A large amount of the product burdens digestion, causing stomach upset.
2. The fruit can cause fermentation, which leads to flatulence and bloating.
3. The product is contraindicated in patients with infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. Excessive consumption of the fruit can cause hypervitaminosis, which harms the intestines and heart.

Overall, this tasty fruit is more beneficial than harmful. The main thing is to observe the measure and take into account possible contraindications.

Features of use for women

Melon is a great helper for girls who want to maintain external beauty for a long time and feel healthy throughout their lives.

But, besides this, there are other beneficial properties for the female body:

1. Regular consumption of pulp has a positive effect on the condition of the hair and skin.
2. Due to the increased amount of silicon, it acts on a woman’s body like a youth pill.
3. For pregnant women, moderate consumption of the pulp is beneficial: it works as a natural laxative, helps cope with swelling (due to its diuretic effect), and has a positive effect on the fetus.
4. With the help of melon, you can “deliciously” and easily lose several kilograms (the metabolic process improves).
5. Folic acid has a positive effect on the body during menstruation.
6. The fruit improves resistance to stress and depression, its consumption improves mood.
7. A few pieces of melon at night will improve your sleep.
8. Improves memory and concentration.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU EAT PUMPKIN SEEDS Every Day

By the way, for lovers of solar treatments, you should definitely include fruit in your daily diet. Research has proven that tan actually spreads better over the body and lasts longer.

What problems does it help to cope with?

Practice has shown that melon successfully copes with the symptoms and even the causes of some health problems. It helps women maintain beauty and youth at home, thanks to which it has found wide application in the field of cosmetology.

For medicinal purposes

Official and traditional medicine They advise you to take a closer look at the melon in order to:

• activation of metabolism;
• combating pathologies of the kidneys, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract;
• relieving inflammation;
• normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood;
• improving the functioning of the cardiovascular system, memory;
• cleansing the body of waste and toxins;
• increasing potency;
• enhancing the effect of medications;
• elimination of depressive conditions;
• increasing immunity.

In the piggy bank folk recipes You can find remedies for many ailments. For example:

1. For swelling, boil 1 tbsp. l. melon seeds in 1 tbsp. milk.
2. For constipation, eat about 2 kg of melon during the day - approximately 400 g of pulp per meal, in addition to your usual diet.
3. If your blood sugar is high, grind the melon seeds and then ¾ tbsp. l. mix this flour with 1 tbsp. boiling water and leave until completely cooled. Consume 3 times a day before meals.

For beauty

Melon is used to create various beauty products:

1. To prepare a moisturizing lotion, mix ground melon pulp and grape juice, taken in equal proportions. Apply the mixture for 15-20 minutes and then rinse off warm water. This product tones and moisturizes the skin.
2. Helps make skin soft and velvety nourishing mask. To prepare, mash the melon pulp, apply the pulp to the skin as a mask, hold for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. Repeat the procedure every 2 to 2 days.
3. The lightest tonic mask is considered to be a product made from melon peel, peeled from the pulp. Just apply it to your face with the juicy part down. After 10 minutes, remove the peel and wash with warm water.

How to eat melon correctly and in what quantity

To eat melon without negative consequences, you need to know how to use it correctly.

To avoid eating disorders, you should first learn how to choose ripe fruits:

• the melon should have a bright yellow color without green streaks;
• the tail should be dry, as should the base;
• the crust should be without damage or dents;
• a ripe vegetable should have a strong, pleasant aroma.

Having chosen a ripe fruit, you should wash it thoroughly so that microbes from the knife that first cuts the rind do not get onto the flesh. It is better to cut the melon into thin pieces so that it can be thoroughly chewed.

Depending on the degree of ripeness, the benefits of melon pulp for a woman’s body vary

You should only eat the tasty pulp, excluding those places where it is hard and unripe. Near the crusts, the pulp may be immature and contain harmful substances.

It is important to know! You should choose the right time to eat melon. It is advisable that the meal take place 2-3 hours after and 1 hour before lunch or dinner. It is not recommended to eat melon on an empty stomach.

If you drink cool water or fermented milk products afterwards, this can cause stomach upset. Also It is not advisable to combine it with alcoholic drinks. If desired, the melon can be washed down with warm water.

Description and characteristics

Both crops are herbaceous annual plants from the Pumpkin family. Both crops have vigorously growing vines with tendrils. The flowers are the same yellow color. They have similar requirements for soil, light, heat, and growing conditions.

Watermelon is a species of the genus of the same name. Melon is from the genus Cucumber. Thanks to this difference, both cultures can be placed on neighboring areas- they are not at risk of cross-pollination. This biological process occurs in specimens of the same species.

The main thing is what biologically active substances are contained in each product and whether they are contraindicated for certain diseases.

Both melons contain macro- and microelements, vitamins, and fiber. When determining which fruit is healthier - melon or watermelon, many associate their value with the amount of calories and sugars.

Watermelon

His homeland is Africa. Another 3 thousand years ago, the plant was cultivated by the ancient Indians and Egyptians. Proof of this is the seeds lying in the tomb of Tutankhamun. Europeans discovered watermelon much later, when the Middle Ages began.

Plant structure:

• stems are climbing, up to 3 m long, covered with fibers that evaporate moisture;
• leaves - dissected, less often whole, with a waxy coating;
• flowers - male, female and hermaphroditic;
• the fruit is a berry with a thick striped or spotted green skin and many seeds.

The weight of a watermelon can reach 35-40 kg. The fruits are most often round, less often oblong.

For compact transportation, the Japanese, creating artificial conditions, learned to grow square and triangular specimens.

The pulp of the berry is bright red or pink, with a granular, delicate or fibrous structure. The Chinese eat stewed or fried watermelon rinds as a side dish.

The usefulness of watermelon can be judged by its composition.

Melon

The homeland of this plant is the countries of the ancient East.

In Central and Asia Minor, the crop has been cultivated for more than 2 thousand years. In Europe, it finally took root in the 16th century.

Plant structure:

• roots - one main, deep, and many superficial;
• stems are liana-shaped, pubescent, up to 2.5 m long, with many additional branches;
• leaves - oval or heart-shaped, located on long petioles;
• flowers - 3 types, like watermelon;
• the fruit is a cylindrical or round pumpkin with a thick skin;
• peel - yellow, brown, whitish or green, covered with stripes or specks.

A fruit with many seeds can gain weight up to 18-20 kg. The pulp is dense, with a pronounced aroma. Its color can be white, soft cream, greenish.

In terms of the amount of useful substances, melon is not inferior to watermelon.

Preparation and storage of medicinal raw materials from melon

Harvesting melon- a process that can be carried out from the moment the first fruits appear on sale until the end of sales. Melon can be dried either in individual pieces or in long slices, which are braided and packed in plastic.

During drying, wasps, flies or other insects should not be allowed to land on the raw materials, so you can cover the material with gauze or any other breathable fabric. For preparations, you need to choose high-quality material from ripe and healthy fruits.

Important! You can preserve melon, however, with this method of preparing raw materials, it is important not to forget that the fruit will lose most medicinal properties.

It is better to dry melon indoors or under a canopy. You can also use a dehydrator.

Melon seeds need to be removed from the fruit, peeled from the pulp and dried.

This material should be stored in a bag, preferably made from natural fabrics.

When losing weight, when dieting

Due to its low calorie content, melon can be included in fruit and berry diets, and can also be used for a mono-diet. Fiber creates a feeling of fullness, and the beneficial composition “nourishes” the body with essential vitamins. However, it is not recommended to extend such a diet for more than three days.

To achieve the desired result, one cycle of a mono-diet is not enough. Therefore, in order to get rid of not only the water accumulated in the body, but also the adipose tissue that makes up excess weight, it is necessary to repeat the course several times. It is recommended to resort to a melon mono-diet during the season of this fruit. At this time, melons are the most healthy and juicy. You need to alternate 2 fasting days after 5 days of regular nutrition for two months.

In addition to the mono-diet, there are many options with partial food replacement with melon. The most popular: watermelon-melon, melon-kefir, cleansing and melon-cereal.

What can be prepared from melon: recipes

The melon menu is very diverse - from light jams to complex drinks. You can make simple jam from melon. To do this, you need to boil the pulp with sugar. In the summer heat, you can cook a refreshing compote. You will need water, pulp, lemon juice. Serve the drink slightly chilled.

A variety of pies and muffins are made with melon. Salads are made based on the sweet fruit. They can be fruit or vegetable. They also make light frozen desserts or ice cream. For those with a sweet tooth, a recipe for melon marmalade is suitable. Thanks to fructose, the dessert will be very sweet and will have a spicy aroma.

For those who are watching their figure, the best find is a smoothie. Since the fruit is low in calories, smoothies can be consumed as a complete snack. Melon fried in batter is served as an unusual appetizer for the holiday table.

Candied fruit

Ripe fruit is suitable for cooking. It should be cut into small pieces, separated from the peel. For this you need half a kilogram of pulp. Prepare sugar syrup in a separate pan. After boiling, add melon slices and cook for 7 minutes over low heat, stirring thoroughly. Place the slices in a preheated oven at 100 degrees. To prevent them from burning, it is better to use paper and place the pieces at a distance from each other. Then leave in the oven until dry.

Store the finished product in a glass container with a tightly closed lid. Storing in a cool place will extend the life up to 6 months.

There are 355 calories per 100 g. It can be used as an independent product, decorated with cakes and added to pastries.

Candied melons contain folic and ascorbic acids. Eating such sweets can boost immunity.

Compote

For compote you will need a kilogram of pulp, 1.5 liters of water, three lemon rings and 200 g of sugar. Cut the pulp into small cubes, mix with water, sugar and lemons. Cook over low heat. Serve chilled. Compote contains a huge amount of useful substances. It is best suited for diseases of the kidneys, liver, pancreatitis, as it will be an excellent diuretic that removes toxins and bile. There are 97 calories per 100 ml of product.

Melon jam has a huge number of beneficial properties. It helps restore hair and nails, normalizes blood and blood pressure, and in the spring it will be an excellent remedy in the fight against vitamin deficiency.

To make jam, pulp and sugar are used. Place the slices in a saucepan and cover with sugar. Leave on low heat. It is worth remembering that after heat treatment a number of useful substances will be lost.

Cocktail

Mix 200 g of fruit pulp, 150 g of lemon juice, and a spoonful of honey in a blender. Serve chilled, garnish with mint leaves. A drink made from melon will relieve thirst, replenish the body's water balance, increase immunity, maintain your figure, and have a positive effect on hair and nails.

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melon ice cream recipe Expand

Smoothie

Smoothies are healthy cocktails. They are suitable for people who are sensitive to their figure. For the smoothie you will need 300 g of pulp and 250 g of drinking yogurt. Everything needs to be mixed until smooth.

100 g of product contains 58 calories. This drink can not only quench your thirst, but also your hunger.

Wine

Thanks to fructose and ascorbic acid Melon is used as a raw material for homemade wine. For wine you will need about 9 kg of melon pulp, 2 kg granulated sugar, 1 liter of water, citric acid, 200 g of raisins.

Cut the pulp into small pieces. Place the squeezed juice into a fermentation container. Fill it no more than 70%. Add raisins and citric acid. Wine should be stored in a dark, warm room at a temperature of 23 degrees. After a few days, add sugar. After 3 weeks the wine will be ready. A white precipitate forms at the bottom. Pour the wine into a clean container without sediment. You can add sugar to taste and vodka for strength. This wine should be transferred to a cool, dark room with a temperature no higher than 18 degrees. Every 10 days, pour it into a clean container. Repeat the procedure until sediment stops forming at the bottom. The strength of the drink will not exceed 12%. The color will depend on the type of melon. Can be stored in a tightly closed glass container for up to 1.5 years.

Juice

Only ripe fruits are used for freshly squeezed juice. It is best to use mechanical or automatic juicers to preserve as much as possible. more useful vitamins and elements. The finished juice has a honey taste and a bright aroma. When the juice cools, a slight sourness may appear. It is useful for kidney diseases, is able to remove urea and heavy salts, and is a natural and safe diuretic that does not wash away beneficial substances from the body. Thanks to vitamins, the drink can strengthen the immune system. The potassium included in the composition improves heart function and blood properties.

There are 47 calories per 100 ml of juice.

Soup

To prepare the soup you will need: 4 shallots, olive and butter, meat broth, 1 ripe melon, salt and pepper to taste. The onion should be fried in olive oil with the addition of butter. Fry until golden brown over medium heat. Mix onion with melon pulp and meat broth. Mix in a blender until smooth. Serve chilled. The finished soup can be decorated with a mint leaf.

100 g of soup contains 165 calories.

Salad

For the salad you will need 400 g of pulp, 30 g of red onion, a teaspoon of lime juice, salt and pepper to taste, 100 g of Feta cheese. Cut the pulp into small cubes. Mix finely chopped red onion with pulp, chop cheese, season with olive oil and lime juice. Add spices to taste.

100 g of prepared salad contains 335 calories.

Preparing melon for the winter: recipes

The most common preparation is jam. In its simplest version, only sugar and melon are required for preparation. To diversify the tastes, other fruits, even spices, are often added.

This preparation option is very versatile: dried melon can be offered for tea or served instead of dessert. It is used to prepare cosmetical tools, with its help they lose weight.

Unlike the fresh product, the calorie content of dried melon is high - 341 kcal. The composition of nutrients is the same as that of the fresh fruit. The product is useful for constipation, decreased potency, and sagging skin. Dried melon is consumed for problems with the heart and blood vessels.

It's easy to prepare dried melon: thin strips of the fruit are laid out on a leaf and exposed to the sun. Can be dried in special installations or oven.

Melon chopped with a blender is combined with a small amount of honey and poured into oiled trays. The layer should not exceed 5 mm. The marshmallows are dried in special dryers according to the instructions supplied with them.

The temperature in the oven is set to +60…+70ºС and the drying process takes place with the door open. This is approximately 12 hours. The finished pastille does not stick; While it is warm, it is rolled into a roll.

Natural marmalade

To make melon marmalade at home you will need sugar, cinnamon and vanillin.

Finely chopped melon is placed in a saucepan and filled with water level with the pieces. Cook until soft, then drain the water. The cooled pieces are crushed into puree. Add 1 kg of sugar to the drained water and make syrup. Next, combine the puree with syrup and boil by half.

The hot marmalade is placed in a prepared container and left to cool. Only after this they cover with lids.

Melon varieties

Indicators of melon ripeness are its juiciness and sweetness. Many varieties of varieties have distinctive features. There are many popular types of aromatic melons, we list some of them:

• "Altai". The ripening period is relatively short. The fruit is oval, thin-skinned. The main difference is the strong aroma.
• "Pineapple". Early variety. The oval melon is golden-orange in color. Pulp with a pinkish tint.
• "Musky". A small melon crop with a round, somewhat flattened shape. The peel is thickened. It can be white, bluish-gray, green, yellow. The pulp also varies color range- from yellow to orange tone.
• "Blondie". Flattened shape, thin grayish-green skin. The flesh is tender. The ripe fruit acquires a beige tint and has a distinct odor.
• "Galileo". Mid-early period of ripening. Melon with greenish pulp and pleasant aroma.

Who benefits from melon seeds?

Melon seeds are recommended to be used for the following pathologies:

• diabetes;
• diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
• infectious diseases of the respiratory tract;
• inflammatory processes in the kidneys;
• prostatitis;
• helminthiasis;
• sleep disturbance;
• depression;
• urolithiasis disease.

It is recommended to include the product in their diet for women who experience severe pain during menstruation. The seeds will be useful for those who have problematic dry skin and brittle hair. They must be present on the menu of pregnant women, athletes, children and the elderly.

Application

Melon seeds have a complex effect on the body. For example, a decoction for cleansing the liver helps to get rid of other pathological conditions. Proper Use The product only brings benefits to the body.

The seeds are consumed dried whole or ground into flour. Used to prepare infusions, decoctions, and cocktails. Seeds from unripe melon and sprouted seeds should not be consumed. They contain toxic substances and negatively affect the body.

To prepare flour, dry seeds are ground in a coffee grinder or ground in a spice mortar. The powder is taken one teaspoon in the morning on an empty stomach. Used to treat diabetes and cleanse the intestines.

To prepare the milk, add fresh melon seeds to 500 ml of water, add honey or brown sugar and beat with a blender until smooth. The drink effectively removes mucus in diseases of the bronchi and lungs.

Recipes

In order for the body to receive maximum benefit, you can prepare a cocktail by chopping the pulp and peel. And the seeds are ground into powder and used as medicine to improve the functioning of the male reproductive system. Here are a few recipes.

Seed and milk cocktail

To prepare the cocktail you will need:

• 3 tbsp. l. melon seeds;
• 1 tbsp. milk.

Grind the seeds using a blender and add milk. Boil for five minutes and let cool. Strain the resulting mixture and consume one glass per day.

Seed infusion

To prepare you will need:

• 1 tbsp. crushed seeds;
• 3 liters of boiled water.

Pour water over the seeds and leave for 24 hours. You can use the infusion instead of water any number of times.

The child’s body is ready to accept melon from the age of one. In an earlier period, special enzymes involved in the processing of the product are completely absent. In this regard, although melon is quite healthy and nutritious, the child may develop colic, allergies, diarrhea, vomiting, and frequent urination.

After a year, you can offer your baby to try melon, just a little. In the absence of negative manifestations, the pulp can be given daily. At the same time, the child’s body will be filled with minerals, vitamins, pectins, iodine, phosphorus, and magnesium.

From the age of two, the consumption rate of melon pulp reaches 50 g daily. Melon will help fight constipation, skin problems, normalize hemoglobin, and support the kidneys and liver.

After 3 years, you can offer your child 200 g of melon. Naturally, the fruit must be fully ripe.

1. Ripe melon has a sweetish aroma. Fruit without odor should not be taken.
2. Using sound, you can determine the maturity of the fetus. When ripe, it will make a dull sound if you lightly slap it with your palm.
3. You can determine ripeness by using the peel. If you press it lightly, it will immediately recover. This melon is ripe. If the peel is pressed through, then the fruit is overripe and should not be consumed.
4. The color of the fruit will also tell you about its maturity. It should be smooth, without black spots.
5. The tail must be dry.
6. You should not purchase melons from stalls located near roadways. Dust from cars can penetrate the skin of the fruit and bacteria can develop there.
7. You should not purchase cut berries. There may be bacteria in it.
8. When purchasing melon, you should make sure that it is stored in a cool, dark place.
9. The seeds should be easily separated from the pulp.

If the seeds are empty and dry, it is better to discard the fruit. This suggests that it was fertilized with strong chemicals. Consumption of food may cause poisoning.

The whole fruit can be preserved for a long time if certain storage conditions are met. The temperature should be kept from 0 to 3 degrees. But it's worth remembering long-term storage at a temperature of 0 degrees the fruit will freeze, and it will lose a number of useful and nutritious substances for the body.

Cut fruit should only be stored in the refrigerator. It is not recommended to keep it there for a long time, since over time the pulp begins to produce harmful gas, which can cause poisoning.

Is it possible to freeze

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