The flesh of the watermelon intensifies in color as it ripens. In the Middle East and China the watermelon seeds are roasted and eaten like popcorn or peanuts. Watermelon is part of the cucumber family along with pumpkin, squash, and muskmelon. Watermelons come in shapes from round to oval and can weigh from 5 to 85 pounds. Watermelon is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and contributes fiber, iron and potassium to the diet.
Watermelons contain the phytochemical, lycoprene, an anti-cancer agent.
While all fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, they will not have the same kind or amount. The research on phytochemicals and their importance in health is still emerging. This increases the importance of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables every day to take advantage of the known nutritional components plus the benefits of phytochemicals.