(P03-024-23) Effects of Blenderized Watermelon With Rind Consumption on Blood Pressure, Anxiety, Mood, and Skin Health in Adults

Objectives: Studies have shown that L-arginine may lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety or positively impact mood. Watermelon is a great dietary source of L-citrulline, which is precursor of L-arginine. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of blenderized watermelon with rind consumption on blood pressure, anxiety, mood and skin health.

Methods: In a randomized, crossover study, 22 adults (19 females, 3 males, age 27.8 ± 7.2 years) blenderized watermelon with rind (240 mL, 72 kcal) vs isocaloric sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) control. Blood pressure was measured every 15 minutes over a total of 45 minutes. Mood and anxiety were examined pre beverage consumption and post 45 minutes using Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ), and GAD-7 anxiety questionnaire, respectively. Skin sebum, pigment, and moisture levels on right cheek were measured pre and post blenderized watermelon- or placebo control- soaked gauze application.

Results: Watermelon consumption significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in 30- and 45-minute post consumption compared to baseline (P < 0.05). There was a non-significant tendency of reducing diastolic blood pressure (DBP) at 15 minute poster watermelon consumption compared to baseline (P=0.061), while a significant increasing at 15 minute post SSB consumption (P=0.043). Both treatments decreased skin moisture and sebum levels (P=0.001) but there were no significant differences between the two treatments. No significances were found on skin pigment levels between or within trials. Both trials lowered anxiety scores at 45 post consumption compared to baseline (P=0.031) but no significant differences were observed between trials. Mood scores were lowered with drink consumption in both trials P=0.001) with greater reduction with watermelon consumption compared to SSB (P=0.049).

Conclusions: This study suggests that the consumption of blenderized watermelon may have some benefits in postprandial blood pressure control and mood improvement. It could serve as a good replacement for sugar sweetened beverages. Future research on the long-term effects of blenderized watermelon consumption on mood and anxiety and skin health and their mechanism is warranted.

Funding Sources: The SDSU nutrition 302L laboratory class and The National Watermelon Promotion Board [NWPB 19-20]