Watermelon is a native of Africa and a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cantaloupe, squash and pumpkin.

Because of its usefulness as a source of potable liquid, watermelon made its way into Asia and the Mediterranean as caravans traveled north.

Watermelon is a great thirst quencer, and provides an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of beta carotene. Like other red foods, it also contains the powerful antioxidant lycopene.

Antioxidant Score (ORAC)=142

Look for symmetrical watermelons without any flat sides. To determine is a watermelon is ripe, slap the side. If it resounds with a hollow thump, it`s a good indicator that it`s ready to eat.