How Much Water Is Actually In A Watermelon?

Sweet watermelon is synonymous with summertime, and is a great treat to pack for picnics or add a splash of extra sweetness to your lemonade. When you are choosing the perfect watermelon from the produce section, there are a few important things to check for to make sure you choose one that is ripe and ready to eat. You can even try tapping it to listen for ripeness.

Once you have chosen the perfect watermelon, you can grill it to enjoy as part of a salad, try pickling the rind, or simply slice it up and enjoy it on its own! In those hot summer months, it is especially important to make sure you stay hydrated. Most people already do not drink enough water, which can have more consequences in the heat. While it does sound like it will, thanks to the name, does watermelon actually contain enough water to help keep you hydrated?

Can eating watermelon help hydrate you?

The USDA says the average watermelon is about 92% water, making it a great aid to help keep you hydrated during those hot summer days. Additionally, it packs a healthy dose of vitamins A and C into every bite (via Healthline). You can even eat the rind for an added dose of nutrition. It is full of antioxidants, which can protect the cells of your body, according to Mayo Clinic. One of those antioxidants is lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of cancer or diabetes (via WebMD).

Healthline reports that a one cup serving of watermelon contains up to half a cup of water, and is low calorie, making it a great snack for those aiming for weight loss, as watermelon can help you feel full. The next time you spend time outside on a hot summer day, try snacking on a slice of watermelon to quench your thirst!