Scientists: Watermelon yields Viagra-like effects
zhion@zhion.com July, 2008
Betsy Blaney, a writer from Associated Press, wrote "A slice of cool, fresh
watermelon is a juicy way to top off a Fourth of July cookout and one that
researchers say has effects similar to Viagra!" in her news report. [1]

Watermelons contain an ingredient called citrulline that can trigger
production of a compound that helps relax the body's blood vessels.
Citrulline reacts with the body's enzymes and is changed into arginine.
Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic
effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction. [1]

The nitric oxide can also help with angina, high blood pressure and other
cardiovascular problems. Thus, eating watermelon benefits the heart and
the circulatory and immune systems. [1]

Study also have suggested that taking an arginine supplement for weeks
or months would significantly increase the production of sperm and
drastically improve erection.   The effective doses range from 2 to 5 grams
per day. [2]

Bhimu Patil, a researcher and director of Texas A&M said that
watermelon rind contains 60% more ciltrulline than in the flesh. And,
among different watermelons, the yellow-fleshed types contain the most
citrulline.

However, you need to have about six cups of watermelon to get enough
citrulline to boost the body's arginine level. In addition, watermelon is a
diuretic, you may need to "visit bathroom" frequently after taking a large
quantity of watermelon. Another issue is its amount of sugar, this may lead
to side effect of cramping. [1,2]

Though its high content of sugar, some researchers believe that intake of
watermelon may benefit those who are obese or suffer from type-2
diabetes. [1]

Citrulline is also present in nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, pine
nuts and other curcubits, such as cucumber and cantaloupe. [1,2]

While, Ben Wasserman, reporter at Foodconsumer.org, suggested that
instead of eating watermelon, those who want to have a boost in their
bedroom performance may consider eating peanuts and other foods that
contain high levels of arginine.   In the meantime, they should also eat high
amounts of vitamin C and if possible some omega-3 fat. [2]

Watermelon also contains lycopene.

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[1] Scientists: Watermelon yields Viagra-like effects
[2] Eat watermelon to boost men's sexual performance?  foodconsumer.org, Jul 6, 2008 - 3:46:54 PM