One way to improve anemia, especially iron deficiency anemia, is to provide adequate iron through the diet.
Watermelon, although not a major source of iron, contains a significant amount of vitamin C, which plays an important role in increasing the absorption of iron from food. According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vitamin C helps improve the absorption of non-heme iron (plant-based iron) in the intestines. Non-heme iron is often not absorbed effectively like heme iron (found in animal meat), but when combined with vitamin C, the absorption of iron can increase significantly.
Watermelon juice not only provides vitamin C but also contains water and antioxidants such as lycopene, which help improve overall health. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to protect cells from free radical damage. Lycopene may have a positive effect in reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health. This is very important for people with anemia, when the heart has to work harder to pump blood to nourish the body.
Drinking watermelon juice in the morning also helps provide quick energy thanks to the natural sugar content in watermelon, helping the body start the day freshly.
Drinking juice early in the morning also helps the body quickly absorb the necessary nutrients and vitamins, including iron, to improve anemia.
A study from the Mayo Clinic also emphasizes that combining watermelon juice with iron-rich foods such as green vegetables, beans and cereals can help improve the effectiveness of iron supplementation. This way, the body can absorb iron better, thereby helping to improve anemia quickly.
Drinking watermelon juice in the morning can be a good way to supplement vitamin C, which helps increase the absorption of iron from food, while providing water and antioxidants. When combined with a diet rich in iron, watermelon juice can effectively help improve anemia.