Cantaloupe Nutrition Facts

Many people who are presented with cantaloupe nutrition facts often find themselves admiring the versatility and nutritional value of the cantaloupe, but then quickly find themselves asking what a cantaloupe is. Well, a cantaloupe is essentially a member of the world-famous melon family and is more popularly known as “muskmelon.” The fruit is common in North America and Europe but is heavily marketed in different names like Galia melon and charentais which explains why it is not popularly known as the cantaloupe.

Still, this minor disconnect in naming the fruit does not take away from its many health benefits and impressive array of nutrition facts. In the succeeding paragraphs, we’re taking the time to enumerate the cantaloupe nutrition facts and health benefits that come along with it to help consumers eyeing a healthier diet in coming into the decision of adding the cantaloupe to their regular grocer’s list.

Perhaps the most underrated benefit of the cantaloupe is that it contains a relatively low amount of calories and fats. According to published cantaloupe nutrition facts, a 100-gram serving of fruit only has 34 calories making it an ideal snack substitute to the processed foods we have come to know and love. If you are eyeing to lose weight, switching to eating cantaloupes in between meals can significantly help you cut down on your calorie intake which in turn facilitates weight loss.

Cantaloupes also contain their fair share of vitamins such as Vitamin A. Vitamin A is known to be common in the melon family and the cantaloupe is no exception. In fact, one whole medium-sized cantaloupe actually contains about 110% of one’s recommended Vitamin A dietary requirement. Vitamin A, in turn, is essential for clear eyesight, healthy skin, and an enhanced immune system to fight against common diseases.

Cantaloupes also contain a high amount of Vitamin C as well as Vitamin B-complex like pantothenic acid and niacin. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which plays a key role in strengthening the immune system to prevent cough and colds. Vitamin B, on the other hand, is responsible for a variety of metabolic functions including digestive health, brain vitality, muscle health and many others.

The minerals that are predominant in cantaloupe nutrition facts include manganese, which serves a vital function as a co-factor in antioxidants. A co-factor serves as a stimulator or an agent of action so it complements Vitamin C and other antioxidants to help fight against free radical damage. This, in turn, helps lower one’s risk for degenerative illnesses at the cellular level such as cancer and heart disease. Cantaloupe nutrition facts also feature potassium which is essential for blood pressure, a steady heart rate, and proper muscle contractions. In plenty of cases, low levels of potassium in the body is the primary reason why people often experience cramps.

The impressive list of cantaloupe nutrition facts mean little if we do not take the necessary steps to take advantage of these health benefits. Moreover, cantaloupes are actually readily available and fairly affordable for many. As such, those who plan to switch to healthier diets can tremendously benefit from adding cantaloupes into their daily diets.