Who can refuse a cool slice of watermelon, bursting with juice on a hot summer afternoon? It’s our favourite summer fruit, after the mango, of course. Low in calories and high on flavour, watermelon also has a slew of health benefits. Did you know that watermelon is a remedy for erectile dysfunction? One of the many pluses of the fruit is its anti-hypertensive property. On World Hypertension Day 2019, let’s learn why watermelon is a perfect addition to the DASH diet that helps lower high blood pressure. And it’s science-backed! Health Benefits of Watermelon: 8 Reasons Why It is The Perfect Fruit For Summer.

A study by Florida State University published in the American Journal of Hypertension showed that eating watermelon could effectively reduce blood pressure in overweight people.

Thirteen overweight people with hypertension were chosen for the study. Since cold weather constricts blood vessels, increasing blood pressure, one hand of each subject was dipped in cold water. The subjects were told not to take any BP medication or make any changes in their lifestyle.

Two groups were made and one was given watermelon extracts -- four grams of the amino acid L-citrulline and two grams of L-arginine per day. The other group was given a placebo for six weeks. World Hypertension Day 2019: Theme and Significance of the Day Dedicated to High Blood Pressure Awareness.

The groups were then switched for the second six weeks. The results showed that watermelon extracts reduced blood pressure in the subjects who took them. This clearly shows that eating watermelon can have a positive impact on blood pressure.

The compounds in watermelon, L-citrulline and L-arginine are important for the production of nitric acid, an important vasodilator. They help in opening up the blood vessels, letting blood flow easily through the blood vessels.

The same compounds also help against erectile dysfunction, improving blood flow to the penis. So if you want to improve your blood pressure, make it a point to buy the fruit this season.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 17, 2019 11:10 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).