Experts say that extreme “watermelon-only” detoxes are not a good idea. Eating it alone is not good for you because it doesn’t give your body the protein and healthy fats it needs.
Is the watermelon detox trend actually healthy?
There is no denying that watermelon is a tasty and hydrating fruit. Recently, some social media users have gone too far with that idea, transforming it into a “diet” or “detox.”
According to dietitian and Sugar Shock co-author Samantha Cassetty, RD, the watermelon diet is a fad that appeared to start gaining traction on social media in 2022 and is not a formal diet plan. It’s unclear where the diet came from, and there doesn’t seem to be a formal “plan” to follow.
Nonetheless, it is frequently presented as a “detox” or cleanse in which participants consume only watermelon for a predetermined period of time. The length of time varies; some TikTokers report eating watermelon nonstop for three days, while others say they have done so for at least 30 days, as per a report by Women’s Health.
The watermelon diet is popular because of its detoxifying properties, but the notion that it purges your system isn’t true. According to Cassetty, “the goal is to eliminate toxins and begin weight loss without feeling overly hungry, but you don’t need to eat a certain kind of food to detox the body.” “Your kidney and liver naturally remove toxins from your body on a daily basis because that’s how it’s designed,” she says.ALSO READ: Water alone won’t cut it, experts share smart tips to stay truly hydrated all day
Can you lose weight by eating watermelon every day?
A watermelon diet, however, is not a long-term weight loss strategy; rather, it is a temporary fix. Your weight may change if you only eat watermelon, but it will return once you start eating other foods.
While watermelon might help with weight loss in the short term, it shouldn’t be the only food consumed. Concentrating on just one thing can cause the body to lose important proteins and healthy fats, which are necessary nutrients.
What are the real health benefits of watermelon?
There are many health benefits of watermelon, as per the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
• High in vitamins and antioxidants, watermelon is a nutrient-dense food.
• Watermelon’s vitamins A, C, and B6 support the immune system and eyesight.
• Watermelon’s lycopene has been connected to a lower risk of heart disease and some types of cancer.
Watermelon’s low calorie content makes it a good snack for weight loss, and its amino acids can lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance.
• Eating watermelon every day can lower body weight and BMI.
• Because of its low cholesterol, saturated fat, and sodium content, regular consumption can help with weight loss.
FAQs
Is it safe to eat only watermelon for weight loss?
While watermelon is nutritious and low in calories, eating it exclusively is not sustainable or balanced. You will miss out on essential nutrients such as protein and healthy fats.
Does watermelon actually detox the body?
Not quite. Your body naturally detoxifies itself via the liver and kidneys. Watermelon improves hydration and health, but it does not “cleanse” your system on its own.
