Watermelon season is one of my favorite times of the year! There is something extra special about sinking your teeth into a bright red piece of juicy goodness on a lazy summer afternoon.

Not only is watermelon amazingly delicious, it’s also super nutritious! Watermelon contains a carotenoid phytonutrient called lycopene. Carotenoids are powerful anticancer agents. They can protect cells from free radicals, enhance immune function, inhibit heart disease, and decrease the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Carotenoids are responsible for the vibrant color of many fruits and vegetables, including watermelon. Lycopene, in particular, is especially helpful for protecting against prostate cancer. It may also protect against cancers of the mouth, lung, stomach, pancreas, bladder, colon, and rectum. Lycopene is fat-soluble, so eating a lycopene food with fat improves its bioavailability (try adding watermelon to a salad that includes avocado and extra virgin olive oil!).

The following recipe is a fun, healthy, and delicious way to incorporate more watermelon into your diet. It’s from one of my favorite blogs called Nourishing Meals. Enjoy these beautiful popsicles on a lazy summer afternoon. Until next time, make every bite count!

http://www.nourishingmeals.com/2012/07/watermelon-whole-fruit-popsicles.html