Don't miss out on muskmelon this summer: Fortis Delhi gastroenterologist shares its health benefits

Muskmelon is an underrated fruit that provides multiple health benefits in summer, explains Dr Shubham Vatsya.

Summer is the season of many cooling fruits, but not all of them enjoy the popularity of mangoes and watermelons. And according to Dr Shubham Vatsya, gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, one of the most underrated of the lot is muskmelon, also known as kharbuja.

Muskmelon is a hydrating fruit loaded with beneficial nutrients. (Pexel)

On Instagram on May 15, Dr Vatsya suggested having a bowl of muskmelon every day in summer, as the fruit offers multiple health benefits, especially for women.

1. Rich in inositol

Inositol is often referred to as vitamin B8. However, it is technically not a vitamin, but rather a naturally occurring sugar alcohol produced by the body that helps maintain cell structure, improve insulin signalling, and brain chemical function.

Dr Vatsya explained, “One bowl of muskmelon has roughly 500 to 600mg of inositol, which improves the insulin efficiency of the body. It also supports fat metabolism, and because of these reasons, it becomes clinically relevant in dealing with PCOS (recently renamed to PMOS or polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome), insulin resistance and weight issues.”

2. Rich in water and potassium

Like many other summer fruits, muskmelons are high in water, making them naturally refreshing. However, it also contains electrolytes, such as potassium, which help maintain fluid balance, transmit nerve signals, and regulate muscle contraction. In Dr Vatsya’s words, “Muskmelons also have 90 percent water along with potassium, which supports kidney filtration, reduces water retention and bloating.”

3. Loaded with fibre and micronutrients

Muskmelon is also loaded with dietary fibre, which is one of the most important macronutrients that the body needs. Fibre is known to slow down and aid in digestion, maintain the gut lining and microbiome, and prevent blood sugar spikes. The fruit is also rich in vitamin C and beta carotene, which is the naturally occurring red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits and a powerful antioxidant.

As Dr Vatsya stated, “Kharbuja is also rich in fibre that helps the gut lining. The fruit is also loaded with vitamin C and beta carotene, which strengthen the immune response, repair the skin, and slow down cellular damage and inflammation.”

“Have one bowl of muskmelon every day in the summer,” he advised. “This not only cooks the body, but also takes care of hydration, metabolism, insulin response, and digestion, altogether.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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