A cool wedge of watermelon on a hot summer day? Refreshing, for sure.

But watermelon is more than just a seasonal treat. Here are three great health reasons to dig into this juicy fruit:

1. It’s loaded with lycopene. Watermelon juice actually gave tomato juice a run for the money in a recent study of lycopene levels. That’s good news for your body, because early research suggests that lycopene may be a cancer crusher. ( Here’s a trick for unleashing more lycopene from your tomatoes.)
2. It can make your skin pretty. Watermelon is loaded with a key compound credited with helping skin’s healing and regenerative processes. Say no more — bring on the melon! ( Find out what other foods support youthful skin.)
3. It’s practically calorie-free. With fewer than 50 calories in every cup, watermelon is one smart way to satisfy a sweet tooth. And with a whopping 141 grams of water per cubed cup, watermelon will keep you hydrated, too. ( Here are 10 more low-calorie treats to try.)

Which is better for your watermelon — chilled or room temp?

RealAge Benefit: Eating a diverse diet that is low in calories and high in nutrients can make your RealAge as much as 4 years younger.
ReferencesPublished on 07/21/2008.

Consumption of watermelon juice increases plasma concentrations of lycopene and beta-carotene in humans. Edwards, A. J. et al., Journal of Nutrition 2003 Apr;133(4):1043-1050.

Watermelon consumption increases plasma arginine concentrations in adults. Collins, J. K. et al., Nutrition 2007 Mar;23(3):261-266.

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