4 benefits of watermelon sexually

The potential benefits of watermelon sexually include support for erectile function, prostate health, and fertility. While it is a stretch to say watermelon is a treatment for issues such as erectile dysfunction (ED), some of its nutrients have been linked to these benefits. At the very least, it is a sweet treat to share after sex.

There are many reasons to eat more watermelon. For men, the sweet fruit may have additional benefits related to sexual and reproductive health. Keep in mind, though, that the available research is sparse. Many studies focus on animals and, if done on humans, are small in size. Larger trials are needed to draw more conclusions. 

For now, here is a look at the potential watermelon benefits for men.

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May improve erectile dysfunction

Watermelon contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that converts into L-arginine, another amino acid, which is the precursor for nitric oxide, a substance that acts as a vasodilator. This means it widens the blood vessels and, in turn, improves blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis.

Some research suggests that L-citrulline supplementation may help men with mild ED achieve and maintain firmer erections by enhancing nitric oxide production and blood flow to the penis. However, the study focused on oral supplements at doses higher than watermelon alone would typically provide, and L-citrulline was acknowledged to be less effective than ED medication.

May boost male fertility

Watermelon is rich in antioxidants like lycopene that help fend off free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress, which can otherwise lead to cellular damage and disease. 

Free radicals can also contribute to infertility in men, as an overproduction of free radicals can affect sperm quality and quantity. Research suggests lycopene supplementation may help reduce sperm DNA damage caused by oxidative stress in both fertile and infertile men.

May support prostate health

The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system. It is involved in semen production and ejaculation, and it responds to male hormones such as testosterone. Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer in men, and patients often report sexual problems, such as ED, low libido, and reduced sexual function either prior to or as a result of treatment.

While there is no single way to prevent prostate cancer, following a healthy, balanced eating plan may reduce the risk of developing it. Specifically, eating foods that are high in antioxidants, such as lycopene, may be associated with reduced risk.

Some studies have found that high-lycopene eating patterns (including eating watermelon) are associated with decreased prostate cancer risk. However, these are merely associations and haven’t been proven by larger research studies. 

Always consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your eating habits.

May support testosterone production

Much of the evidence suggesting that watermelon may improve testosterone levels is based on animals. For example, a 2020 study found that watermelon pulp and seed extracts increased testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in five male rats after 28 days.

Human research on lycopene’s effect on testosterone is limited. However, some researchers suggest that the lycopene found in watermelon may help support testosterone production by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the testes. Clinical evidence in humans is still lacking and more research needs to be done before the theory is supported.

Want to maximize the potential benefits of watermelon sexually? Here are a few tips:

• Eat watermelon and other fruit as part of a balanced eating plan. The potential sexual benefits of watermelon may sound promising, but no single food is likely to improve sexual health on its own. Aim for variety instead and fill your plate with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

• Choose fresh watermelon over sugary drinks. All fruit contains natural sugars, but research suggests people who eat watermelon tend to consume less added sugar overall. If you are buying a watermelon smoothie or juice, check the label (or ask how it is made), as some versions contain added sugar.   

• Set your expectations. Unlike ED medications, watermelon is not an approved or fast-acting treatment for sexual dysfunction. The L-citrulline content in watermelon is much less than the amount studied in research. If ED, low libido, or other related problems are regularly interfering with your sex life, you should check in with your healthcare provider for targeted advice.

There is a lot to potentially gain from eating watermelon, and while there are not any major health risks for most people, there are some things to keep in mind before digging in.

Though rare, a watermelon allergy is possible. The fruit's high water content could also cause bloating in some people.

Since watermelon is a high-FODMAP food (a type of food that contains carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the gut), it can increase symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and may not be a good choice for those with other gastrointestinal disorders.

Aptly named, watermelon is mainly composed of water. In fact, nearly 92% of the fruit is H2O, making it highly effective at supporting hydration. This is important, as hydration plays a key role in many bodily functions, including delivering nutrients to cells, clearing waste from the body, supporting cognition, and more.

Because of its high water content, watermelon is low in calories. Replacing high-calorie foods with those lower in calories could help with weight loss and weight management. Some research suggests that eating watermelon instead of higher-calorie sweets may help improve markers associated with overweight and obesity, such as body weight and body mass index (BMI).

Despite watermelon’s low calories, it contains significant nutrients. The fruit is a rich source of antioxidants including lycopene and beta-carotene, which can contribute to heart, eye, and immune health. Notably, watermelon also provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, B vitamins, and copper. 

Observational research even suggests that those who eat watermelon tend to take in more nutrients in general (though, of course, this association does not imply causation).

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Is watermelon a natural form of Viagra? Not exactly. Viagra is a prescription drug that is FDA-approved for treating ED. Watermelon contains some compounds, such as L-citrulline and lycopene, that have been associated with improved male sexual health and fertility in some small or animal studies.

Here’s what we know:

• Watermelon may support sexual health in men. Compounds like L-citrulline and lycopene have been linked to improved erectile function, fertility, and prostate health, though much of the evidence comes from animal studies or small human trials.

• Watermelon has benefits beyond improved sexual health. Watermelon is hydrating, high in nutrients, and packed with antioxidants that can support overall health, including heart health.

• Watermelon cannot replace evidence-based ED medications. Fruit can be a helpful addition to a balanced eating plan, but it is not a substitute for proven medical care.

While the preliminary research on watermelon is promising, it is still underway, and more human studies are needed to fully understand the sexual benefits of watermelon.