Watermelon Said To Have 'Similar Effects To Viagra'

Watermelon is regarded as a good fruit to quench thirst, but researchers say it may also be a natural Viagra.

Experts claim that the fruit contains an ingredient that affects the body's blood vessels in the same way as when a man takes the sex drug. They believe that the juicy fruit could be used to help men who suffer from erectile dysfunction.

The scientists from Texas A&M University say watermelons are loaded with an organic compound called citrulline that can trigger blood vessels to relax, much like Viagra does.

Dr. Bhimu Patel, who led the study, says that when watermelon is consumed, citrulline is converted to an amino acid which improves circulation.

"The more we study watermelons, the more we realize just how amazing a fruit it is in providing natural enhancers to the human body. We've always known that watermelon is good for you, but the list of its very important health benefits grows longer with each study."

"Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it. Watermelon may not be as organ specific as Viagra but it's a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side-effects."

Penelope Perkins-Veazie, a USDA researcher, says that although the research is valid, one would need to eat about six cups of watermelon to get enough citrulline to boost the body's arginine level.

And "the problem you have when you eat a lot of watermelon is you tend to run to the bathroom more."

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