Doctors say that although watermelon and melon are popular summer fruits, some people should consume them with caution due to possible health risks.
According to physician Maria Belyaeva, people with stomach or intestinal problems may need to limit these fruits because of their acidity. She also warned that watermelon and melon have a high glycemic index and contain significant amounts of natural sugar.
For that reason, specialists do not recommend excessive consumption for people with diabetes. Belyaeva advised limiting intake to no more than one cup of sliced watermelon or melon per day for diabetic patients.
Nutrition consultant Alexey Kabanov noted that watermelon and melon can still be healthier alternatives to sugary soft drinks and processed juices. He explained that excessive sugar consumption may negatively affect the heart and blood vessels and increase the risk of obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis.
At the same time, Kabanov stressed that people with obesity or excess weight should also consume watermelon and melon carefully because of their high glycemic index.
According to the nutritionist, healthy individuals can generally eat two or three slices per day without significant concern.
