Decoding Mini Watermelon Nutrition Facts
Of all the juicy summer fruits, few scream sunshine bliss like bite-sized mini watermelons. Their petite form makes them endlessly snackable. However, understanding key mini watermelon calorie and nutrient data can help guide wise enjoyment.
Serving Size Matters for Mini Watermelon Calories
Standard large oblong watermelons bear an impressive nutritional resume. Not only is watermelon low calorie density, but it also boasts antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds to nourish wellness in myriad ways. But how do mini and baby seedless watermelon stack up by comparison when it comes to calories?
Nutrition facts for mini watermelon reveal:
- 1 mini watermelon (13 oz) = 82 calories
- 1 cup diced mini watermelon (8 oz) = 46 calories
- 1 small wedge mini watermelon (4 oz) = 23 calories
The calories in mini watermelon prove slightly higher than full size melons given their smaller serving sizes. But these petite sweet fruits still rate low enough calorie density for guilt-free snacking.
Counting Macros in Mini Watermelons
Beyond calories, key macronutrients shed light on mini watermelon’s nutrition profile. Here’s what 13 ounces of mini melon contains:
- 21.3 grams carbs
- 0.39 grams protein
- 0.13 grams fat
So one standard mini watermelon counts under 5% calories from protein and fat combined. The rest comes from carbohydrates, largely naturally occurring fruit sugars.
Sugar in Mini Watermelon
Fructose gives mini watermelon characteristic sweetness. A 13 ounce mini melon harbors 16 grams sugar. That nets a lower glycemic load than many fruits. For those monitoring sugar, a mini wedge at 4 ounces packs about 5 grams.
Fiber in Mini Watermelon
That sugar arrives bundled with 1.3 grams fiber per 13 oz mini melon. The skin and seeds hold the highest fiber density. Leaving these intact when prepping mini watermelon boosts digestive and gut bacteria benefits.
Vitamins and Minerals
When it comes to mini watermelon’s vitamin and mineral content, variety plays a key role. Dark red fleshed mini melons often harbor higher density nutrients than orange/yellow types. Still, mini watermelons generally supply:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Magnesium
- Potassium
These nutrients support immunity, heart health, skin healing, and electrolyte balance. Potassium specifically assists proper muscle and nerve transmission.
Mini Watermelon Citrulline
Another unique mini watermelon nutrient is the amino acid citrulline. This plant compound gets converted into health-boosting nitric oxide and arginine in the body. Citrulline benefits circulation while lowering blood pressure.
Weight Loss Mini Watermelon Benefits
Between low calorie density, high water content, and fiber factors, mini watermelon ranks as a weight loss friendly fruit. Nutrition perks include:
- Low energy density fills up without filling out
- Water content hydrates and reduces hunger pangs
- Fiber nourishes microbiome and enhances satiety signals
Results from a 2015 Korean study found watermelon juice consumption increased weight loss over 12 weeks compared to plain water. Both mini and regular watermelon assisted shedding belly fat and body mass index (BMI) measures.
Mini Watermelon Selection and Prep Tips
Choosing ripe, robust mini watermelons ensures peak sweetness and nutrition delivery. Inspect all sides looking for:
- Creamy yellow spot where resting on soil
- Smooth intact rind lacking dents or bruises
- Heavy weight for small melon size
Once home, wash exterior before slicing open. Mini watermelon prep needn’t be complex. Simply rinse again, then cube into bitesize pieces, wedges, or slices. Leave skin and seeds intact when possible to max fiber factors.
Creative Ways to Eat Mini Watermelon
Obviously mini watermelon tastes delightful eaten raw out of hand. But these petite melons also shine when incorporated creatively into recipes like:
- Fruit salad filler
- Skewered grilled bites
- Gazpacho garnish
- Salsa mixer
- Smoothie addition
- Infused water ingredient
So savor solo or spice things up by blending bite-size mini watermelon into diverse dishes all season long.
The Takeaway on Mini Watermelon Calories and Nutrition
When it comes to understanding calories in mini watermelon alongside nutritional assets, moderation remains key for wellness. A standard 13 ounce mini melon nets 80+ calories. Smaller 4-5 ounce mini wedges slash calorie counts for guilt-free snacking. Beyond low energy density, mini watermelons supply hydration, antioxidants, fiber, and plant compounds like citrulline to benefit circulation, immunity, weight goals, and more when enjoyed as part of an overall balanced diet.
FAQs
How many calories are in a mini watermelon?
One 13 ounce mini watermelon contains about 80 calories. Smaller 4-5 ounce mini wedges provide 20-30 calories for guilt-free snacking.
Are mini watermelons healthier than regular size?
Mini watermelons are comparable nutritionally to full size melons. Their smaller serving widths make mini watermelons an easy way to control portions and calorie intake.
Do mini watermelons have less sugar?
Mini and full size watermelons contain similar sugar density by weight. But smaller mini melon serving sizes result in less overall sugar consumed per individual snack session.
How should I pick and store mini watermelons?
Choose mini watermelons that feel heavy for size with a creamy yellow spot resting on soil. Store whole melons at room temperature out of sunlight. Once sliced, refrigerate mini watermelon in airtight container for up to 5 days.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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