Watermelon diet: Nutritionist on risks and whether it works
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
The watermelon diet has gained significant popularity over the summer. Many believe that due to its high water content, watermelon can aid in weight loss. However, this diet carries significant health risks, according to nutritionist Olha Dorosh.
About watermelon diet
The watermelon diet involves consuming only watermelon, with a duration that can range from 3 days to 2 weeks.
"Logically, people lose weight on this diet because 30 calories per 100 grams of watermelon makes it a low-calorie diet," the nutritionist says.
According to the expert, consuming 5 kg of watermelon pulp provides only 1500 calories.
However, if you eat only watermelon for a week, this is not about health and nutrient balance. While you may cleanse your body and lose weight, the pounds will likely return once the diet is over.
Health risks
Failing to meet the minimum daily intake of macronutrients benefits no one.
The feeling of hunger can lead to mood swings, migraines, and headaches. Watermelon contains a large amount of water, which may increase urine output and disrupt the body's water-electrolyte balance. This can be problematic for people with pre-existing kidney conditions.
It is strictly advised against following this diet for:
- Children
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding women
- People with diabetes or chronic illnesses
"And it's definitely not the best fruit for people prone to bloating and especially IBS, as the FODMAPs in watermelon can cause increased bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea," the nutritionist added.
Is watermelon beneficial?
Watermelon is a good source of water, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
It contains a unique amino acid, citrulline, which may help normalize blood pressure. Watermelon can be eaten as a dessert, added to salads, blended into a smoothie, or made into ice cream.
Watermelon also contains folic acid, which regulates fat metabolism and has an anti-sclerotic effect.
The fruit's easily digestible sugars help heal and nourish the liver.
However, it's important to note that if a watermelon is rich in toxic substances, the fluid in its flesh is no longer beneficial.
