Selection and Storage Tips
Red, ripe flesh is the best indicator of the sweetest and most nutritious watermelon. As watermelon ripens, the lycopene content becomes more concentrated. To get the most lycopene benefits from watermelon, make sure your melon is ripe.
When selecting watermelon choose one with a symmetrical shape that is heavy for size. A fully ripened watermelon will feel heavy for its size. Also, look for dried stems and a yellowish underbelly. If purchasing pre-cut watermelon choose pieces with the deepest red color flesh and no white streaking.
Store whole melon at room temperature. Cut watermelon should be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for use within five days.
Bottom Line
Watermelon is a nutritious fruit that can be included in a healthy diet. If you have diabetes and are concerned about eating watermelon Weiner suggests you speak to your healthcare provider or dietitian about fitting it into your meal plan. Click here to find a registered dietitian nutritionist near you.
Constance Brown-Riggs, MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, national speaker and author of The African American Guide to Living Well with Diabetes.. She is Dannon One Yogurt Every Day Nutrition Advisor.