Watermelon: A sweet source of hydration

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- During these hot days of summer we are constantly reminding you of the importance of staying hydrated. We talk about proper hydration because we want you to be safe and that your bodies function much better when you are hydrated than when you're not.

Of course, there is this almost nagging reminder that beer is not a source of hydration. Okay, we'll allow for non-alcoholic beer, but there are other more reliable sources.

One of those sources is watermelon. It's sometimes referred to as the fruit of summer. In the United States, watermelon is more popular than cantaloupe, honeydew, and all other melons combined.

It's good for our bodies, especially now that we're in the hot time of the year.

Watermelon is 91% water. An average-size wedge is about 10 ounces. When you eat of these wedges you are essentially drinking one full cup of water. This source of hydration keeps the body functioning properly as it promotes excellent blood flow. This is especially true in the summer when you lose more fluids due to sweating. WIN!

Nutrition experts suggest older people may find it easier to get their hydrating fluids through fruit. It's suggested that older people tend to feel less thirsty, thus drinking less water, putting them at a higher risk for dehydration and heat-related illness during the hottest times of the year.

Some people may shy away from the watermelon because they think it's loaded with sugar. Well, remember that watermelon is 91% water. A one-cup serving watermelon has just 46 calories. One cup of diced watermelon has only 9.5 grams of sugar, lower than some other fruit sources.

That meager total means no spikes in blood sugar.

Watermelon is fat-free and sodium-free. This makes it good for your heart. Amino acid L-citrulline and the micronutrient lycopene are abundant in watermelon and these sources could improve heart health.

Some people will sprinkle a little salt on their watermelon to give it a different taste.

How? The kidneys convert L-citrulline into nitric oxide which serves to relax your artery walls and lower blood pressure. Lycopene can lessen inflammation linked to heart disease. Watermelon has more lycopene than tomatoes.

Watermelon, by itself, is not a cure-all for some maladies. It's not going to displace blood pressure meds or the like BUT it will be a good source of vascular health when it's part of a balanced diet with nutrient-dense foods.

As aforementioned, watermelon is a summer fruit. It's not a fruit that can be canned or freeze-dried.

It can be enjoyed in a dinner salad and gazpacho. There are several recipes that allow you to enjoy watermelon.

By itself, however, is the best way. How can you not smile and be happy by munching on a good hunk of sweet watermelon with the added element of it being an excellent source of hydration?