Here’s a stimulating study: researchers at Texas A&M University found that watermelon may have similar effects as Viagra. The scientists credit a variety of ingredients that collectively stimulate blood vessels and may increase libido.
Watermelon contains a variety of nutrients like beta carotene and phytonutrients like lycopene (which research incidentally also links to a healthy prostate) and citrulline. Lesser-known citrulline is still being studied to determine its health effects but researchers find that it relaxes blood vessels in the same way Viagra does.
Says Dr. Bhimu Patil, director of Texas A&M’s Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center in College Station: “Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it.”
When citrulline is consumed, it is converted to arginine in the body. Arginine is an amino acid that is well known for its beneficial heart, circulation, and immune system effects. It is also beneficial for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dr. Patil adds: “Watermelon may not be as organ specific as Viagra but it’s a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side-effects.”
