There are some fruits that we cannot help but instinctively relate, even though they are not actually exactly identical. One of the best examples of this we have in the eternal debate between melon vs watermelon . Each of these fruits has a unique flavor with millions of fans around the world. This is especially reflected in the summer , when the cultivation of both reaches its maximum peak. And it is precisely at this time that people most fervently ask what is the best fruit.
Each one has its pros and cons, that's undeniable; But, through the analysis of its nutritional values , it is possible to objectively decide which fruit may be the best for our diet, beyond the taste.
The melon vs watermelon debate
Although it cannot be denied that both fruits have some similarities, such as that both are excellent for hydration , they also have important differences.
Knowing the differences between melon and watermelon can be very useful to choose the most convenient fruit according to the kind of benefits and nutrients we want to obtain . Therefore, we are going to detail them below.
Cantaloupe
The melon has only 55Kcal per 100 grams , so it is a great ally for diets. To its low caloric content, it must be added that it is loaded with a variety of micronutrients, fiber and natural sugar hydrates in considerable quantities.
Its mineral contribution is not far behind, since it has high percentages of magnesium and potassium , in proportions similar to those of bananas. It also has carotenes, vitamin A, vitamin C and B complex vitamins.
At water level it also resembles watermelon, as it has 85% in its composition. Although watermelon is slightly superior in this regard, few fruits have liquid concentrations greater than 80%.
Thanks to the combination of a high aqueous percentage with the aforementioned nutrients, this is a refreshing fruit capable of satisfying the desire for sweet foods without problems.
Watermelon
Watermelon is even more hydrating than melon, since its water content is around 95% of its composition . In fact, it is the reason why it is considered as a lighter food.
Its caloric content is just 28Kcal per 100 grams , so those looking for a fruit with few calories have here one of their best options.
But its similarities with melon are not limited to the few calories and high water content, since it also has a significant concentration of sugars and complex hydrates. However, its percentage of Vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, carotenes and vitamin C is lower than that of melon.
But in the case of the B complex vitamins, it does have a higher concentration than that present in melon , especially folic acid.
So in the case of watermelon we are also talking about a refreshing and satiating fruit , but given the small differences it is difficult to choose which one is more convenient at a nutritional level when talking about melon vs watermelon. Therefore, it remains to ask which one is best for us and in what cases?
Choosing between melon vs watermelon
When talking about melon vs watermelon, it cannot be said that one fruit is superior to another, since as it has been clear both are loaded with multiple beneficial nutrients . Therefore, to choose between one or the other, it is necessary to take into account which are the contributions that we most want for our body.
For example, if we want a natural snack that quenches our thirst after a workout, a watermelon would be more convenient due to its greater hydrating contribution. On the contrary, if what we are looking for is the highest possible contribution of minerals and nutrients, the melon may be a better option.
If our interest is in reducing our calorie consumption as much as possible, the watermelon would take the victory, having almost half the calories of the melon .
Now, if our goals do not involve eating fruits directly, but using them as ingredients for a recipe, the situation changes completely. Since both are satiating fruits , they are widely used for all types of diets. We would have to determine which recipe is more appealing or easier to make according to our culinary knowledge and based on this decide the winner between melon vs watermelon.
In this sense, the two fruits are quite balanced, since both are very versatile and allow the preparation of exotic dishes such as melon and loin salad, Mediterranean feta cheese salad with watermelon, melon and salmon skewers, watermelon gazpacho, among others.
In fact, they are not far behind when it comes to talking about dessert recipes, since they allow you to prepare a variety of popsicles and sorbets that can function as the perfect appetizer for the summer.
