The popular berry turned out to be an unexpected helper for the heart

Scientists revealed an amazing property of watermelon: a component of the flesh and rind can strengthen the heart and blood vessels

As reported by TUT.AZ, researchers from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro discovered that L-citrulline - a natural amino acid found in watermelon - promotes the production of nitric oxide, a critically important molecule for cardiovascular health. The research results were published in the prestigious scientific journal Nutrients.

According to the scientists' findings, L-citrulline, which is especially abundant in watermelon rind, increases the level of L-arginine in the blood, which activates the production of nitric oxide. This mechanism helps dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and lower blood pressure. Notably, unlike direct consumption of L-arginine, citrulline is not broken down in the liver, making it a more effective and safe means of supporting the cardiovascular system. However, researchers note a significant nuance: the concentration of L-citrulline in fresh watermelon is insufficient for a noticeable therapeutic effect - obtaining a minimal therapeutic dose would require consuming excessively large portions. In this regard, scientists see potential in developing concentrates, powders, and other forms of watermelon processing that allow obtaining the necessary doses of the beneficial substance.

In their review, the researchers emphasize the importance of conducting long-term clinical trials, especially involving people from risk groups for cardiovascular diseases. This will help determine the optimal dosage of L-citrulline and confirm its effectiveness for improving blood pressure indicators, vascular elasticity, and endothelial function.