| ■ Watermelons Said to Boost Heart Health | 2008.07.07 |
| Watermelons contain compounds that can benefit the heart and circulatory system and may even provide a Viagra-like lift to the libido, according to Texas A&M researchers. "The more we study watermelons, the more we realize just how amazing a fruit it is in providing natural enhancers to the human body," Dr. Bhimu Patil said in a prepared statement, United Press International reported. Patil and colleagues found that when watermelon is consumed, a phyto-nutrient called citrulline is converted into an amino acid called arginine. "The citrulline-arginine relationship helps heart health, the immune system and may prove to be very helpful for those who suffer from obesity and type 2 diabetes," Patil said. "Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it." In addition, Patil said deep-red varieties of watermelon also contain plenty of the antioxidant lycopene, which protects the heart, prostate and skin health, UPI reported. |