Watermelon Viagra

Look no further than the produce section if lust is on the shopping list. Studies show that watermelon can have the same blood flow benefits as the wildly popular erectile dysfunction drug Viagra. According to scientists, watermelon has ingredients that deliver Viagra-like effects to the body’s blood vessels, and may even increase libido.

Watermelon contains an ingredient called citrulline. Citrulline reacts with enzymes to trigger the body's release of a chemical called arginine. The result of increased arginine levels is relaxed blood vessels, scientists at Texas A&M say the effect is similar Viagra. While citrulline is found in all parts of the watermelon, the rind is 60 percent richer in the ingredient. And even higher doses are found in yellow-fleshed watermelons.

Arginine is an amino acid that has beneficial effects on the heart and circulation system, and maintains a good immune system. Arginine also boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has.

A U.S. Department of Agriculture study corroborates the claims saying watermelon can also help with angina, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. It's a fantastic homeopathic supplement to medical treatment. Additionally, watermelon is packed with key nutrients like lycopene, beta carotene, and other phytonutrients that help combat free radicals in the body which leads to cancer.

One known side effects of too much watermelon intakes is its diuretic effect, not to mention all that water that might have a person running to the loo more frequently. It would take a lot of watermelon to increase the body's level of arginine, about six cups worth. Watermelon is also high in sugar which could affect those with blood sugar issues.