Nutritional Facts about Cantaloupes

The cantaloupe (Cucumis melo) is a medium-sized melon belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Measuring approximately around 5 to 7 inches, this fruit is usually round or oblong in shape and can weigh up to 5 kg. It is called muskmelon because of the musky smell which emanates from the ripe fruit. It is fleshy and orange from within and has a rough outer covering. Owing to the rock-like nature of the netted skin, it is called rock melon in Australia and New Zealand.

Cantaloupes can be grown in areas with sandy, well-drained soil. Good irrigation facility is a must for its growth. As the crop is largely dependent on pollination, bees play a vital role to ensure an abundant cantaloupe harvest.

The origin of the cantaloupe fruit can be traced back to Africa and Asia. It was initially cultivated by the Egyptians and Romans. It was cultivated for the first time in Europe with seeds that were brought from Armenia. Cantaloupe derives its name from 'Comune di Cantalupo in Sabina' in the Sabine Hills in Italy, which is also the summer residence of the Pope. Cantaloupes were introduced to the North American continent by Christopher Columbus, on his second voyage in 1494.

Nutritional Facts about Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes are very low in calories and fats, but very rich in nutrients such as vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy body. This fruit can help to meet the daily requirement of vitamin A and vitamin C and also provide other valuable minerals like potassium and folic acid.

Nutrients per 1 cup of raw cantaloupe:

• Calories: 56
• Fat: 0
• Carbohydrate: 13g
• Protein: 1.0g
• Fiber: 1.0g
• Sodium: 14mg
• Potassium: 494mg
• Vitamin A: 515 RE or 5158 IU
• Water: 144g

B-complex vitamins present in this fruit are also helpful; vitamin C helps the body to develop resistance against infectious agents and manganese acts as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.

Cantaloupes are also rich in antioxidants flavonoids such as zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin which protects our body from various cancers.

This muskmelon is also rich in potassium. Potassium provides protection against coronary heart diseases by keeping a check on the heart rate and the blood pressure. Cantaloupes also help to keep a check on the quantity of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and raise the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as good cholesterol. The potassium content also helps in preventing muscle cramps and lowers the risk as well as helps the body make speedy recovery from injury.

Cantaloupes are a rich source of vitamin A. Vitamin A helps in maintaining a healthy skin. It also reduces the risk of cataract and helps to improve eyesight. Vitamin A is also protects against lung cancer and oral cavity cancer.

Cantaloupes are considered a beneficial component in the diet of a pregnant woman. This fruit relieves water retention by helping the body to excrete the excess sodium. The folic acid present in it helps in preventing neural tube defects in small children.

These were some nutrition facts about cantaloupes. After knowing all the benefits of this fruit, one can be sure that a healthy helping of cantaloupe in your daily diet will not be a bad idea.