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Watermelon is a refreshing summer fruit full of water and health-promoting substances. It helps the body hydrate, supports digestion and can also contribute to weight loss. But beware – not everything that is healthy is suitable to consume at any time. Eating watermelon in the evening before bed can be a mistake that disrupts both your sleep and digestion. In this article we’ll explain why watermelon should not be eaten at night, and we’ll also show you its biggest benefits and refreshing recipes.
Why isn’t watermelon a good idea before bed?
Watermelon is rich in water and natural sugars, which is great during the day – but in the evening it can rather harm the body. Experts warn against consuming watermelon in the evening for several reasons:
- Slows digestion – during sleep the body is less active and the digestive system works more slowly. Consuming watermelon at night may lead to a feeling of heaviness or stomach pains upon waking.
- Excess sugars are stored – the body no longer uses the energy that watermelon provides at night, which can lead to its storage in the form of fat.
- Higher water content will make you get up – watermelon contains over 90% water, which can cause frequent nighttime trips to the toilet and disrupted sleep.
So watermelon is definitely not harmful – it just depends on when you eat it. The most suitable time to consume it is around midday, when digestion is active and the body can use its benefits to the fullest.
Main health benefits of watermelon
Although it is not an ideal snack before bed, watermelon is literally a superfood full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. Here are its biggest advantages:
1. Protection against overheating and heatstroke
Thanks to its high water and electrolyte content, watermelon is an ideal helper during hot days. It hydrates the body, refreshes and helps the body fight overheating.
2. Support for kidney function
Watermelon contains enough potassium, which helps flush toxins from the body and supports proper kidney function. It is therefore suitable for detoxifying the organism.
3. Beneficial for the heart
This fruit is rich in lycopene and beta-carotene, which protect cells from free radicals. It also contains vitamin C and potassium, which reduce cholesterol levels and support healthy heart and blood vessels.
4. Helps protect vision
Lutein, beta-carotene and vitamin C in watermelon protect eye cells from degeneration and deterioration of vision, especially in older people.
5. Normalizes blood pressure
Watermelon contains magnesium and potassium, two key minerals that keep blood pressure in balance and contribute to the prevention of hypertension.
Refreshing recipes with watermelon
Want to make the most of the power of watermelon and enjoy it at the same time? Try these simple summer recipes:
🍉 Watermelon with lime – a detoxifying bomb
Blend several slices of watermelon, add a little water, fresh lemon or lime juice, a few drops of honey and ice cubes. Refreshing, tasty and aids digestion.
🥒 Watermelon-cucumber juice
Juice the watermelon and the grated salad cucumber. Add a few mint leaves, ice and serve in a glass with a straw. Ideal after physical activity or during a hot day.
🍓 Watermelon smoothie with strawberries
Place several cubes of watermelon into the blender, add fresh strawberries and a little plain yogurt. Blend until smooth and you have a refreshing smoothie full of vitamins.
Summary: When to enjoy watermelon and when to avoid it?
Watermelon is a healthy, tasty and refreshing fruit that should definitely not be missing from your diet. But beware – the best time to consume it is during the day, ideally in the morning or afternoon. In the evening before bed it can slow digestion, burden the stomach and disrupt sleep.
If you want to get the most out of watermelon, include it in your diet as a mid-morning snack or part of a light lunch. And if you get a craving in the evening, choose something less watery and without natural sugars.
