Yes, horned melon is a good source of minerals. It contains high amounts of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and iron among other essential minerals for healthy living. The fruit is known to contain more than 80 different kinds of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, dietary fiber and antioxidants which can provide numerous health benefits including supporting cell growth, improving vision, promoting skin health and boosting the immune system. It has also been suggested that its mineral content may help with digestion and control urinary tract infections. Additionally, it has been linked to better weight management due to its anti-obesity properties. All in all, consuming horned melon provides our body with many essential nutrients it needs in order to stay healthy and function properly.
Introduction
Horned melon, commonly referred to as the Kiwano or African Horned cucumber, is a unique-looking variety of melon native to parts of Africa and Australia. In recent years, it has become quite popular in many parts of the world due its sweet taste, unusual appearance and health benefits associated with consumption. This paper will examine the minerals obtained from eating horned melon, including their sources and benefits.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of horned melon makes it a nutrient-rich food source. One hundred grams (3.5 ounces) of raw kiwano provides approximately 37 kcal of energy, with 0.94 g of protein and 8.1 g of carbohydrates, including around 6.7 g of dietary fiber and 1.2 g of total sugars. It also contains various essential vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.
Potassium
Potassium is present within plant foods like vegetables and fruits at varying concentrations, with horned melon containing relatively high levels. 100 grams of kiwano gives 85 mg of this important mineral; roughly 2% of the daily requirement. A regular intake of Potassium helps balance out electrolytes in the body, which can help maintain effective nerve impulse transmissions and regulate heart rate. Additionally, since Sodium competes for the same uptake sites, introducing more Potassium into the diet may help reduce blood pressure.
Phosphorus
In addition to Potassium, horned melon also offers abundant amounts of Phosphorus. Each 100 gram serving provides over 40 mg; about 7% of an average person’s recommended daily allowance. Research has linked Phosphorus with healthy bone formation, by providing basic building block components of bones and teeth. Simultaneously, it assists with aiding muscle contractions and red blood cell productions, while boosting digestion through enzymes responsible for metabolizing fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Therefore, sufficient quantities of Phosphorus promote overall bodily functions and boosts immunity.
Magnesium
This mineral is essential for growth, reproduction, maintenance and operation of cells in our bodies. An adequate amount of Magnesium ensures smooth functioning of nerves and muscles, provides energy to them via breaking down glucose, regulates cholesterol level production, prevents calcification of gallbladder and maintains acid base balance among others. Eating horned melon can provide up to 12 mg/100g of Magnesium; slightly over 3% of the advised recommended daily intake.
Calcium
Calcium plays multiple roles in supporting a healthy body, ranging from strengthening bones, teeth and muscles to regulating symptoms associated with menopause and cardiovascular conditions. It can be sourced from citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons, although horned melon provides yet another means of acquiring sufficient Calcium. This particular vegetable provides about 11 mg/100g, representing just under 3% of what is recommended on a daily basis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, horned melon is packed with minerals, making it both a nutritious and delicious snack. While the melon does not provide large quantities of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium per serving, they are still beneficial and should ideally form part of your daily dietary needs. As such, incorporating horned melon into a balanced diet plan could potentially offer numerous long-term health benefits.
Calcium | 0.013 grams |
Daily Value 1.3 g
|
Iron | 0.00113 grams |
Daily Value 0.018 g
|
Magnesium | 0.04 grams |
Daily Value 0.4 g
|
Phosphorus | 0.037 grams |
Daily Value 1.25 g
|
Potassium | 0.123 grams |
Daily Value 4.7 g
|
Sodium | 0.002 grams |
Daily Value 2.3 g
|
Zinc | 0.48 mg |
Daily Value 0.011 g
|
Copper | 0.02 mg |
Daily Value 0.9 mg
|
Manganese | 0.04 mg |
Daily Value 0.0023 g
|