From the ArcaMax Publishing, Health & Fitness Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/healthtips/s-371347-695144
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (UPI) -- Watermelon has ingredients that
deliver Viagra-like effects to the body's blood vessels and may even
increase libido, U.S. scientists say.
Dr. Bhimu Patil of Texas A&M in College Station said beneficial
ingredients in watermelon and other produce are known as
phyto-nutrients -- naturally occurring compounds that are able to
react with the human body to trigger healthy reactions.
"The more we study watermelons, the more we realize just how amazing a
fruit it is in providing natural enhancers to the human body," Patil
said in a statement.
When watermelon is consumed, the phyto-nutrient citrulline is
converted to arginine through certain enzymes. Arginine is an amino
acid that works wonders on the heart and circulation system, and
maintains a good immune system, Patil said.
"The citrulline-arginine relationship helps heart health, the immune
system and may prove to be very helpful for those who suffer from
obesity and type 2 diabetes," Patil said. "Arginine boosts nitric
oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra
has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it."
Deep red varieties of watermelon are also loaded with lycopene, an
anti-oxidant that protects the human heart, prostate and skin health,
Patil added.