The effect of freeze dried whole watermelon powder on endothelial function and vascular health in older adults

This study investigated the effects of freeze dried whole watermelon powder on cardiovascular biomarkers and endothelial health. In a 16-week double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled study design, 38 men and women between the ages of 45 to 79 years old consumed whole freeze dried watermelon powder or placebo powder (control). An EndoPATⓇ was used to measure endothelial function and fasting blood samples were obtained to evaluate vascular and lipid biomarkers. Watermelon treatment powder did not significantly change endothelial function or vascular biomarkers. However, the treatment group showed improved levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and P-selectin from baseline to final visits. These findings suggest that consumption of watermelon may reduce the risk or progression of cardiovascular disease from improved lipid and vascular biomarkers.