How to Make Watermelon Juice
Making watermelon juice is very simple with just a blender. It is recommended to use seedless watermelon to save time during preparation.
Benefits of Watermelon Juice
Many people believe that watermelon is a 'hot' fruit, but that's not true. According to Western medicine, foods that are high in calories and rich in nutrients are generally considered 'hot'. In contrast, foods that are high in water, fiber, vitamins, and minerals are classified as 'cool'.
Watermelon is 92% water and rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for summer. It is also high in potassium, an electrolyte that can be lost through sweat, making watermelon juice a great thirst quencher.
Watermelon is red due to its lycopene content—a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent cancer and diabetes. This compound also helps protect your skin from sunburn during the summer.
Watermelon contains the highest amount of lycopene of any fruit.
Other benefits of watermelon juice include:
- Cardiovascular protection due to its high citrulline content, which improves blood circulation and lowers blood pressure
- Joint protection thanks to the natural pigment beta-cryptoxanthin
- Good for the eyes due to its rich vitamin A content
- High water content that keeps your skin hydrated
- Low in calories, so you don't have to worry about gaining weight
- Easy to digest and gentle on the stomach, making it suitable for people with colitis or digestive issues
A cup of ice cream can contain up to 300 calories, but an equivalent amount of watermelon has less than 40 calories.
Ingredients
- 1 small watermelon
- 1 small lime (optional)
- Mint leaves, strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
Cut the watermelon into small pieces and remove the rind. If using a watermelon with seeds, use a small knife to remove the seeds.
Squeeze the lime for juice if you want to add a bit of tanginess.
Blending the Watermelon
Place the watermelon pieces in a blender and blend at high speed until smooth.
Strain the juice through a cloth if you prefer a smoother, clearer juice, though this step is optional.
Add the lime juice. Some people like to add a few slices of fresh ginger or coconut water for additional flavor.
Add ice to serve chilled. It's best to drink immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions About Watermelon Juice
Is watermelon juice hot or cool?
Watermelon juice is cool and replenishes electrolytes, making it great for summer.
What can watermelon juice be mixed with?
Mixing watermelon juice is entirely up to personal preference. You can add a bit of lime juice, a few slices of fresh ginger, or coconut water. Other fruits that are commonly mixed with watermelon include:
- Orange
- Carrot
- Pineapple
- Apple
- Celery
- Aloe vera
- Beetroot
- Kiwi
Is it good to drink a lot of watermelon juice?
Watermelon consists of 92% water, with the rest being vitamins and minerals. You can drink watermelon juice daily, but it shouldn't replace your meals or other necessary foods.
Does watermelon juice help with weight loss?
No food directly causes weight loss. However, low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carb foods can support weight loss efforts. Watermelon is a good choice for weight management due to its low-calorie content.
How many calories are in watermelon juice?
100g of watermelon contains about 30 calories. A small 1kg watermelon contains around 300 calories. A 1kg watermelon can make about 5 cups of juice, with each cup containing about 60 calories. (These figures are approximate and not completely accurate)
Does watermelon juice help with hangovers?
Watermelon replenishes water and electrolytes, making it beneficial for hangovers.
When is the best time to drink watermelon juice?
You can drink watermelon juice anytime, but it's best to drink it before meals to maximize nutrient absorption. This is similar to how eating fruit before meals is better, even though many people in Vietnam have the opposite habit.
Is watermelon juice good for men?
Yes. According to research from scientists at the University of Texas, USA, watermelon contains a compound called citrulline, which can help relax blood vessels, similar to Viagra. Once ingested, citrulline is converted into an amino acid (called arginine) that enhances nitric oxide production, helping to treat erectile dysfunction and impotence in men.
Can postpartum women drink watermelon juice?
Yes, postpartum women can drink watermelon juice normally.
How to store watermelon juice
Most fruit juices are best consumed immediately after preparation to enjoy the freshest taste and retain maximum nutritional value. The simplest way to store juice is in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator, where it can last for 2-3 days. If storing juice, avoid mixing it with citrus fruits like lemon or orange, as they can become bitter over time.
