What are the functions and benefits of cantaloupe?
Sep 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, as a common summer fruit, muskmelon has various functions and benefits, primarily including hydration, clearing heat and relieving summer heat, promoting digestion, supplementing vitamins, and improving fatigue. When consuming muskmelon, attention should be paid to selecting ripe fruits, as unripe muskmelons have poor taste and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract; additionally, consumption should be moderated, as excessive intake may cause diarrhea due to its cold nature.
Generally speaking, as a common summer fruit, muskmelon has various functions and benefits, including hydration, clearing heat to relieve summer heat, promoting digestion, supplementing vitamins, and alleviating fatigue. The specific details are as follows:
1. Hydration: Muskmelon has an extremely high water content, exceeding 90%, which can rapidly replenish bodily fluids. It is suitable for situations such as heavy perspiration during summer, insufficient water intake, or dry mouth and throat, helping maintain the body's fluid balance and relieving discomfort caused by dryness.
2. Clearing heat and relieving summer heat: Muskmelon is slightly cooling in nature and sweet in taste, exerting effects of clearing internal heat and relieving summer heat. It is suitable for symptoms caused by summer heat such as irritability, dizziness, and thirst. Its cooling properties help dispel internal heat, providing a refreshing and comfortable sensation and aiding in body cooling.
3. Promoting digestion: Muskmelon contains a certain amount of dietary fiber and proteolytic enzymes. Dietary fiber stimulates intestinal motility, while proteolytic enzymes assist in protein breakdown. Together, they improve indigestion and bloating, promote digestion and nutrient absorption in the intestines, and reduce gastrointestinal burden.
4. Supplementing vitamins: Muskmelon is rich in various vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin A. Vitamin C participates in metabolic processes, while vitamin A supports eye health. Regular consumption of muskmelon provides these essential nutrients, supporting normal physiological functions in the body.
5. Alleviating fatigue: Muskmelon contains small amounts of carbohydrates that can be quickly converted into energy, replenishing physical strength and relieving fatigue caused by energy deficiency. Additionally, its refreshing taste can soothe nerves, helping to improve mental lethargy and restore vitality.
When consuming muskmelon, it is important to choose ripe fruits, as unripe ones may have poor taste and potentially irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Consumption should also be moderated, as excessive intake may cause diarrhea due to its cooling nature. Diabetic patients should also monitor their intake according to individual conditions to control sugar consumption.
