Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, watermelon is famous for its sweet taste and hydrating properties.
Since it’s mostly water, craving watermelon might mean your body needs more fluids. However, there are other explanations to why you’re craving foods like watermelon. This article explains all there is.
10 Possible reasons you crave watermelon
1. Hydration needs
One of the primary reasons you might crave watermelon is dehydration, which may occur due to not drinking enough water or sweating excessively due to hot weather or exercise.
Watermelon is made up of about 90% water, making it an excellent source of hydration, like cabbage.
2. Nutritional deficiencies
Watermelon is a rich source of vitamins A, B6, C, and magnesium, which are crucial for immune support, energy production, and muscle function.
A craving for watermelon might indicate that your body is seeking these nutrients. Consider incorporating lots of fruits and vegetables into your diet to help meet your nutritional needs.
3. Period-related cravings
Women often experience increased cravings for watermelon before or during their menstrual cycle.
This can be due to the body’s increased need for hydration and its magnesium and vitamin B6 content, which can help alleviate menstrual symptoms like cramps and mood swings.
4. Blood sugar regulation
Watermelon is a natural source of sugars, including fructose, which provides a quick energy boost. If you’re low on energy or experiencing a dip in blood sugar levels, your body might crave foods that offer a fast supply of glucose.
However, it’s important to note that while watermelon is lower in calories and has a lower glycemic load than other sweet treats, overconsumption can still lead to spikes in blood sugar levels.
5. Your body needs to cool down
Watermelon is often craved during hot weather or after physical activities due to its cooling effect. The high water content helps to lower body temperature and provide a soothing sensation, making it a popular choice in the summer or after a workout.
6. Seasonal availability
Another factor to consider is the seasonality of watermelon. During the summer months, watermelon is in peak season, making it more available and appealing.
The vibrant color, juicy texture, and sweet taste can make it a highly desirable treat, especially in hot weather.
7. You need a comfort food
Watermelon is often associated with positive memories and emotions, particularly those related to summer and relaxation. Craving watermelon might be your brain seeking comfort or relief from stress.
8. Your body wants something sweet
Watermelon contains natural sugars that can satisfy sweet cravings more healthily. If you’re on a low-calorie diet or cutting back on processed sugars, your body might crave the natural sweetness of watermelon.
9. You need a digestive boost
Watermelon contains fiber and a high water content, which are beneficial for good digestion. If you have issues like constipation or bloating, your body might crave watermelon to help improve bowel movements and reduce discomfort.
The natural sugars in watermelon can also act as a gentle laxative, promoting a healthy digestive system. Read more about the laxative effects of watermelon here.
10. You need a mood boost
Eating watermelon can be a comforting experience. You might simply be craving the sweet taste of watermelon to cope with stress and regain a sense of comfort and joy.
Nutritional profile of watermelon
Below is a detailed breakdown of its nutritional contents per 100 grams, along with the daily values (DV) where applicable:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | % Daily Value (DV) |
| Calories | 30 kcal | 1.5% |
| Water | 91.45 g | – |
| Carbohydrates | 7.55 g | 3% |
| Sugars | 6.2 g | – |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g | 1.5% |
| Protein | 0.6 g | 1% |
| Total Fat | 0.15 g | 0.2% |
| Vitamin A | 569 IU | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 8.1 mg | 9% |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.033 mg | 2.8% |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.021 mg | 1.6% |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.178 mg | 1.1% |
| Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) | 0.221 mg | 4.4% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.045 mg | 3.5% |
| Folate | 3 µg | 0.8% |
| Calcium | 7 mg | 0.7% |
| Iron | 0.24 mg | 1.3% |
| Magnesium | 10 mg | 2.5% |
| Phosphorus | 11 mg | 1.6% |
| Potassium | 112 mg | 2.4% |
| Zinc | 0.10 mg | 0.9% |
| Copper | 0.042 mg | 4.7% |
| Manganese | 0.038 mg | 1.6% |
| Lycopene | 4532 µg | – |
| Citrulline | 250 mg | – |
How to choose the perfect watermelon
Choosing the right watermelon can go a long way to adequately satisfying your cravings. Here are five tips to help you pick the sweetest, juiciest watermelon every time.
1. Check the field spot
The field spot, also known as the ground spot, is where the watermelon rested on the ground as it grew. A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow or orange field spot.
If the spot is white or absent, the watermelon was harvested prematurely and may not be as sweet.
2. Access the weight
A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size. Pick up several watermelons of similar size and choose the heaviest one.
The extra weight indicates a higher water content, which means the fruit is juicy and ripe.
3. Check the color
The right watermelon should have a uniform, dull (not shiny) green color. The skin’s texture should be firm and free of major blemishes or cuts.
A shiny appearance might suggest that the watermelon is underripe.
4. Tap the watermelon
Give the watermelon a good tap with your knuckles. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound, suggesting it’s full of water and at peak ripeness. If the sound is dull, the watermelon might be overripe or underripe.
5. Check the sugar spots and webbing
Sugar spots and webbing are brown, rough patches on the watermelon’s surface. These spots indicate where sugar has seeped out of the fruit, suggesting a high sugar content and a sweet taste.
While some consumers shy away from these marks, they are actually positive indicators of a sweet watermelon.
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Final thoughts: So why am I craving watermelon?
Craving watermelon can be your body’s way of telling you it needs more hydration, nutrients, or a healthier source of sweetness.
With its myriad health benefits, watermelon can be a delicious addition to any diet. But it’s important to consume it in moderation to avoid excessive sugar intake.
