Cantaloupe melon [Cucumis melo]: Benefits and healing properties of the delicious fruit

Cantaloupe melon [Cucumis melo], also called sweet melon, is a representative of the Pumpkin family [Cucurbitaceae], along with other melons, watermelons and cucumbers. [ [ref. 1] ] The weight of this type of melons ranges from 0.5 to 5 kilograms, and there are several varieties of cantalupa - North American cantalupa (C. melo var. reticulatus) and European cantalupa (C. melo var. cantalupensis). The name "cantalup" was given in a very interesting way in the distant XVIII century. It comes from the French cantaloup and through the Cantus region of the Italian city of Cantalupo, which was once the seat of the papal region near Rome after the fruit was introduced there by Armenia. 

Today it is popular with children and adults as a super refreshing, healthy and tasty summer dessert, and the high water content helps prevent dehydration. This type of fruit also contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Cantalupa melons contain a range of antioxidants, including:

• Selenium is an important trace element that is needed for hormonal balance, immune protection and counteraction of free radicals, improving blood circulation.
• Beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A. The latter is important for vision, the immune system and healthy red blood cells.
• Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants known to date, key to immunity, skin health and more.
• Lutein is a key substance for maintaining good vision, helps protect against ultraviolet radiation and protects the visual organs. [ [ref. 2] 
• Zeaxanthin - together with lutein contribute to normal vision and eye health, and is a key component of the center of the macula of the eye. [ [ref. 3] ]
• Choline, which contributes to normal cholesterol levels in the body and supports nervous and muscle function.

Animal studies have suggested that consuming a large amount of the antioxidant beta carotene - a form of vitamin A, may help prevent the development of asthma later in a person's life. Beta carotene is contained in yellow and orange fruits, such as peppers, carrots and melons. One cup - or 177 grams of melon pieces contains 3,580 micrograms of beta carotene. 

Also, people with asthma who received choline - another antioxidant in melon - as part of the treatment had a decrease in inflammation levels, according to a 2010 study . 

Fiber, potassium, vitamin C and choline in melons support heart health. Consuming foods rich in potassium can help reduce blood pressure. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that every average adult consume 4,700 mg. potassium per day to maintain normal cardiovascular function. [ [ref. 5] ]

Beta carotene, tocopherol and other antioxidants in melons can help prevent cell damage caused by oxidative stress. There is evidence that taking supplements containing these and other antioxidants can reduce the risk of lung, prostate and other cancers. [ [ref. 6] ] Other data indicate that dietary fiber also offers protection from colorectal cancer (colorectal cancer). [ [ref. 7] ]

Melons are delicious on their own or in fruit salad, but there are other varied ways to use them. Here are some sample recipes:

• Melon smoothie. This nutritious drink is made from melon, Greek yogurt and natural sweetener. Suitable for a energizing morning snack or a light afternoon snack. 
• You only need four ingredients to make this ice treat: melon, lemon, honey and water. The recipe in English can be found here: Cantaloupe Sorbet
• Roast melon. Like pumpkin, melon can also be very tasty if baked. This brings out the natural sweetness of the melon and is another way to enjoy it.