Watermelon reduces atherosclerosis in University of Kentucky study

In a recent study by University of Kentucky researchers, watermelon was shown to reduce atherosclerosis in animals.

The animal model used for the study involved mice with diet-induced High cholesterol. A control group was given water to drink, while the experimental group was given watermelon juice. By week eight of the study, the animals given watermelon juice had lower body weight than the control group, due to decrease of fat mass. They experienced no decrease in lean mass. Plasma cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower in the experimental group, with modestly reduced intermediate and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations as compared to the control group.

A measurement of atherosclerotic lesion areas revealed that the watermelon juice group also experienced statistically significant reductions in atherosclerotic lesions, as compared to the control group.

“Melons have many health benefits,” said lead investigator Dr. Sibu Saha. “This pilot study has found three interesting health benefits in mouse model of atherosclerosis. Our ultimate goal is to identify bioactive compounds that would improve human health.”

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Watermelon is a summer fruit, with a crunchy and crisp texture. The pulp is red with a number of black or brown watermelon seeds. It is a close relative of pumpkin, cantaloupe and squash. Watermelon belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is grown in vines. Watermelon fruit is a storehouse of nutrients and antioxidants.


The Nutrients in Watermelon are:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Water
- Carbohydrates
- Natural Sugar

The Benefits of Watermelons are:
- cleanses intenstines
- cleanses stomach
- Protects from asthma
- Protects from atherosclerosis
- Protects from diabetes
- Protects from colon cancer
- Protects from arthritis

The study was conducted by Sibu Saha, UK Department of Surgery; Aruna Poduri, UK Saha Cardiovascular Research Center (UK Saha CRVC); Debra L. Rateri, UK Saha CVRC; Shubin Saha of Purdue Univ.; and Alan Daugherty, director, UK Saha CVRC.

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Allison Elliott
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University of Kentucky

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