The muskmelon, scientifically know as "cucumis melo," gets its name from the musky aroma it produces when ripe. The fruit is also known as a cantaloupe, notes The World's Healthiest Foods, or WHF, a website dedicated to healthy eating. Nutritionally, muskmelon is a high fiber fruit, with an abundance of vitamins A and C, and potassium. This makes muskmelon a nutrient-dense food, meaning its nutritional benefits outweigh its calorie content.
Lung Health
Muskmelon is rich in vitamin A, which can contribute to healthy lungs. A 2003 study by Richard Baybutt of the Kansas State University Department of Human Nutrition established a relationship between cigarette smoke and vitamin A. Animals in the study that were fed a diet deficient in vitamin A developed emphysema. According to Baybutt, benzo(a)pyrene, a known cigarette smoke carcinogen, can cause vitamin A deficiency and produce the same results. Baybutt hypothesized that restoring vitamin A levels with foods rich in vitamin A can help counteract the effects cigarette smoke has on your lungs. WHF lists muskmelon as one of these vitamin A rich foods that may benefit lung health.
Eye Health
Your eyes require vitamin A to stay healthy. Muskmelon provides the vitamin in the form of beta-carotene. According to WHF, three or more daily servings of fruits high in beta-carotene, such as muskmelon, can reduce your risk of developing a condition called macular degeneration by 36 percent over individuals who consume 1.5 or fewer servings. Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that can lead to loss of vision. In addition, Juicing-for-Health notes that vitamin A reduces your risk of developing cataracts.
Immune Function
The high vitamin C content in muskmelon assists immune system function by stimulating white blood cells to remove bacteria and viruses from your body. In addition to helping prevent infections and disease, vitamin C also works to regenerate vitamin E rendered inactive by free radicals. In turn, vitamin E supports additional immune system functions. WHF states that a diet high in vitamin C can help reduce the chance of developing heart disease, strokes and cancer.
Nervous System Maintenance
Muskmelon is a good source of potassium, an electrolyte mineral your body stores in its cells. Potassium works closely with sodium to help keep your blood pressure stable and prevent muscles from cramping. In addition, potassium helps maintain a proper electrolyte balance in extracellular fluid, and in doing so reduces water retention.
Stress Relief
The potassium in muskmelon can help when your body is under stress, according to Juicing-for-Health. Without enough potassium, your heart cannot beat normally. The potassium in the juice of the muskmelon can help your heart beat normally, resulting in sufficient oxygen reaching your brain so it can function correctly.
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