WATERMELON AND NAUSEA

Summer brings an abundance of fruit and vegetables grown locally and watermelon is one of them. This delicious red fleshed fruit is 92% water and only 51 calories per cup. It is also packed full of nutrients making it a delicious way to hydrate while consuming a healthy low calorie snack. Watermelon is a great snack for expecting moms too. It can help reduce nausea from morning sickness due to its vitamin B6 content and will also aid in the normal development of fetal lungs, brain, kidneys, visual development, skull and skeleton due to its Vitamin A content. Moreover, it contains lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant and the amino acid citruline.

Watermelon is a source of:

• Vitamin C (25% DV) — involved in wound healing, immune function and is a factor in the development and maintenance of strong bones, cartilage, teeth and gums.
• Thiamin (B1) (10% DV) — releases energy from carbohydrates and aids in normal growth
• B6 (11% DV) Involved in energy metabolism and tissue formation.
• Vitamin A — aids in normal bone and tooth development, maintaining the health of the skin and membranes.
• Potassium 186 mg — an electrolyte known to help lower blood pressure in conjunction with a low sodium diet.

Delicious ways for mom to enjoy watermelon include a smoothie blended with vanilla soymilk, mint and ginger syrup. Or, try a watermelon sorbet with fresh basil and honey.

The Bottom Line: Enjoy watermelon as a refreshing healthy snack!