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.
Short-Term Effects
Intestinal disturbance, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and gas, rashes, facial swelling and anaphylaxis, muscle fatigue, irregular heartbeats, and low blood pressure.Long-Term Effects
Causes spikes in blood sugar levels, gestational diabetes, impotence and erectile dysfunction in men, and nerve, kidney, and heart problems.Drug Interactions
Excessive watermelon intake may interact with diabetes medications and other drugs that retain potassium in the body.When To See A Doctor
If you experience excessive stomach discomfort, diarrhea, very high blood sugar levels (especially if you have diabetes), and allergic reactions.
Ancient Egyptians placed watermelons in the burial tombs of the pharaohs. They believed the fruit would help them stay hydrated during their long journey to the afterlife.
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 . So, do not consume watermelon in large quantities. It may lead to nausea, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, heartburn 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 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 and facial swelling. Anaphylaxisi may also be accompanied by itching of the tongue, headache, and dizziness. 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
While watermelon helps prevent dehydration, consumption of excessive watermelons can increase the water quantity in the body. If this is not accompanied by increased urination, 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.
The word ‘watermelon’ is said to have appeared in the English dictionary in 1615.
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 i
s necessary to keep a close eye on your watermelon intake.
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