10 Surprising Side Effects Of Watermelon
Discover the dangers of overindulging in this nutritious and refreshing fruit.
Nilofar PendhariCertified Clinical Nutritionist
Expertise: Weight Loss & Weight Management
Experience: 9 years
Nilofar Pendhari is a physiotherapist, dietitian, and certified clinical nutritionist having over 9 years of professional experience in the field of dietetics. She specializes in providing effective diet plans for her client’s fitness and... more
Tanya Choudhary ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition
Expertise: Ingredients & Nutrition
Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin, hair, and health. She believes in the right health and lifestyle... more
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While most of you might be in love with the refreshing watermelons, are you aware of the possible side effects of watermelon as well? So, next time, you need to be aware of a few things before munching on those watermelon slices. Watermelon contains high amounts of water, vitamins A, B6, and C, minerals like potassium, and other nutrients. However, overconsumption of watermelons can lead to certain health issues.
To help you know more, we have done all the required research and summed it up to know how much watermelon is just right. Scroll down.
Side Effects Of Watermelon
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There are several components in watermelon that can cause side effects. Here are some of the side effects of this delicious, juicy fruit are:
1. Intestinal Disturbance
Watermelons are rich in lycopenei XAn organic pigment that gives red and pink colors to fruits and vegetables, whose excess consumption may cause gas and indigestion. . So, do not consume watermelon in large quantities. It may lead to nausea, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion and gas. These symptoms can be worse among older people, as the digestive system tends to weaken with age.
2. Cardiovascular Disorders
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Watermelons contain high level of potassium. Consuming potassium enriched food in large quantities can lead to cardiovascular problems. Some of the cardiovascular problems that can occur are absent or weak pulse, irregular heartbeats, cardiac arrest, etc. It may also affect the motor control and nervous system of the body.
3. Not Good For Diabetics
When an individual is insulin resistant, then the blood sugar level tends to stay put in the blood. It does not enter into the cells of the body. When there is a shortfall of glucose in the cells, then more amount of insulin is manufactured. Both the blood and the sugar remain in the blood, which can affect the triglyceridei XA common type of converted fat stored in the blood and used by the body to give you energy between meals. levels in the body. Watermelon, full of natural sugar, can cause a spike in the sugar levels of the body. That is why diabetics should avoid consuming watermelon.
4. Fall In The Blood Pressure Level
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Excessive consumption of watermelon can lead to a dip in the body’s blood pressure level. If a person suffers from low blood pressure, it is best to consume watermelon occasionally.
5. Allergic Reactions
Consuming watermelon can also cause allergic reactions in some people. They are severe or mild rashes, anaphylaxisi XA life-threatening allergic reaction caused due to exposure to an allergen and causes rashes, nausea, breathlessness, and shock. and facial swelling. People who are allergic to carrots, latex and cucumber, can easily develop allergic reactions to watermelon.
6. Avoid During Pregnancy
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Gestational diabetes is a common, yet serious health issue that plagues many pregnant women. Consuming large quantities of watermelons increases blood sugar level, which leads to gestational diabetes. So, pregnant women should stop eating watermelon for a few months if they are prone to gestational diabetes. Better safe than sorry!
7. Loose Stools
Watermelon contains a special type of sugar, called sorbitol. People, who are intolerant to sorbitol develop loose stools and gas on consuming watermelon.
8. Problems Related To Nerves And Muscles
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People, who consume watermelon in large quantities, may develop nerve, muscle, and kidney problems.
9. Impotence
Eating too much of watermelon may cause impotence and erectile dysfunction in men.
10. Fatigue
The weak functioning of the kidneys reduces the purification and excretion of harmful substances from the body, which leads to swelling of the legs. Consumption of excessive watermelons can increase the water quantity in the body. If the excess water is not excreted from the body, then it can lead to an increase in the volume of blood. This may further worsen the swelling as well as lead to exhaustion and fatigue.
Infographic: 4 Side Effects Of Watermelon To Watch Out For
It is delightful to have watermelon or its juice to cool down on a hot summer’s day. However, overindulgence may prove to be dangerous. If you are at risk of developing cardiovascular disorders or have one, it is necessary to keep a close eye on your watermelon intake.
Check out the infographic below to learn more about the adverse effects of excessive watermelon consumption. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Download Infographic
Watermelon is a sweet, thirst-quenching fruit with a multitude of benefits. This refreshing fruit contains many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, one must also be aware of the possible side effects of watermelon. Overconsumption of this healthy fruit may cause nausea, bloating, diarrhea, cardiovascular disorders, spiked sugar levels in the body, and lower blood pressure way too much. It also may cause fatigue and loose stools in some. Hence, check your portions while consuming them to avoid their adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you not eat watermelon?
There is no particular time when it is inappropriate to eat watermelon.
How much is too much watermelon?
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 recommends having 2 cups of watermelon a day. Consuming above this amount may lead to adverse effects.
Key Takeaways
- Overindulgence in watermelons could trigger diarrhea and bloating.
- It contains a compound called sorbitol that may cause loose stools and gas.
- The high potassium content in watermelons may lead to cardiovascular problems like an irregular heartbeat.
- It may set off an allergic reaction, resulting in mild to severe rashes in susceptible individuals.
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