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Cantaloupe, also known as the pineapple melon, is not only tasty and refreshing, but it also has a range of health benefits. This fruit, which originates from India and was cultivated as early as 4,000 years ago, is less popular than its Greek counterpart, but its nutritional values and healing properties are considerable. What should you know about this delicious fruit before you eat it?
How to recognize a ripe cantaloupe?
You can recognize a cantaloupe by several key signs:
- Color: The ripe rind has a pale color.
- Texture: The rind should be soft, especially in the area of the blossom end.
- Smell: A ripe melon has a characteristic sweet aroma.
You can also check the ripeness of a cantaloupe by gently pressing the blossom end. If you feel slight softness, the melon is likely ripe.
Nutritional values and health benefits
Cantaloupe is rich in a number of important nutrients, including:
- Calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, chromium
- Vitamins A, C, thiamine, folic acid
This fruit contains beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant and contributes to the treatment of inflammatory and feverish conditions. Cantaloupe is known for:
- It cools and improves comfort during fever.
- Helps with inflammations of the small and large intestine.
- Supports the health of the female reproductive system, especially in cases of irregular or heavy menstruation.
- Stimulates kidney function and may help in treating gout, gallstones, and rheumatism.
- Strengthens the immune system and helps cleanse the body of painful deposits.
Cantaloupe can also be included in the diet as a main food due to its high carbohydrate content. However, given its high sugar content, it is advisable to consume it in moderation.
How to properly store cantaloupe
If you plan to store cantaloupe, a temperature of 7–10°C is recommended, where it will keep for three to five days. Storing the melon in the refrigerator can affect its aroma, which may transfer to other foods.
Conclusion
Cantaloupe is not only a delicious and refreshing fruit, but it also has many health benefits. When selecting and consuming this fruit, it is important to pay attention to its ripeness and proper storage. Include cantaloupe in your diet and take advantage of its health benefits.
