The “Watermelon Fuels Athletes” is a trademarked initiative used to promote the benefits of watermelon after exercise. Research done by Penelope Perkins-Veazie show the benefits of watermelon for athletes.

Since her original project other research has been conducted showing some of the specific health benefits of watermelons. Watermelon was found to be a natural source of hydration and replenishment.

Here are excerpts from a recent clinical trial of Watermelon v Gatorade:

• Drinking watermelon puree is as effective as the sports drink (Gatorade) in supporting performance, with the added advantage of improving antioxidant capacity through increased intake of lycopene and vitamins A and C
• Changes in blood glucose, inflammation, oxidative stress, and innate immune measures were comparable in watermelon and Gatorade
• The antioxidants in watermelon (vitamin A, vitamin C, and lycopene) augmented the exercise-induced increase in plasma antioxidant capacity, a big advantage over Gatorade
• Watermelon helped assist exercise in lowering blood pressure in the subjects