Watermelon Juice

There is nothing more refreshing than cold, fresh watermelon! It not only tastes good, it feels so good to eat! In addition to being delicious and extremely hydrating (92% water), watermelon is highly nutritious. Read here for a brief overview. 

As the peak of watermelon season is approaching a quick halt, I decided to buy a couple of watermelons to make some juice from. I usually drink half of 1 watermelon (7-9 cups). You can drink the watermelon juice as is, but I like to add a hint of mint and basil. I got the idea from one of my favorite health coaches- Fully Raw Kristina. This has been my go-to meal after exercising during the summer, and it’s just as fulfilling in cooler weather. Who doesn’t like a nutrient-dense, refreshing meal that makes you feel invigorated and energized?!

Watermelon offers essential nutrients for kidney, heart, muscle, nerve, metabolic, vision, blood, and digestive health. Here is a list of some of the many nutrients watermelon offers: 
Magnesium– Master mineral- involved with over 300 cellular metabolic functions.Helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong. Helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. 
Potassium– Kidney, heart, and digestive health
Vitamin C– Major antioxidant
Beta carotene/ Vitamin A– Vision and bone health 
Vitamin B, B1 (thiamine) and B6 (pyridoxine)- Break down of proteins and fats. Offers electrolytes and nervous system signal transmissions. Enzymatic functions that convert food into cellular energy.
Lycopene– Found to be protective against different cancers, including: prostate cancer, breast cancer, endometrical cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancers.

One quick note about watermelons: Watermelon fall into a category of “low-pesticide residue” produce, AKA “the Clean 15.” This means that, even if the fruit is grown commercially (with the use of pesticides), the flesh of the fruit bares little to no trace of the pesticide. See the list of the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean 15.” However, this does not excuse the use of GMO’s, which poses many other threats to human health. See more about GMO’s here: GMO Dangers, Protection yourself against GMO’s

 I have found that the best way to cut the watermelon is by cutting it in half, laying it down on the flat cut, and slicing the skin off. You will waste little to no watermelon by using this method.

Watermelon Juice
Watermelon, skinned and sliced
Fresh basil, about 6 large leaves
Fresh mint, about 6-10 leaves

 Directions
Place sliced watermelon into blender or food processor. Blend until liquified.
Pour into a large glass and add basil and mint. Drink with or without ice.
For less pulp, you can strain the juice as you pour it into your glass.

Enjoy!