Muskmelon and cantaloupe are both sweet and refreshing melons that are often confused for one another due to their similar appearance.
Learn about the differences between muskmelon vs. cantaloupe as well as the nutritional value and health benefits of each.
What is muskmelon vs. cantaloupe?
Muskmelon
Muskmelon (Cucumis melo) is a yellow-colored melon that belongs to the gourd family. Muskmelon is available in many varieties and goes by names such as honeydew, Santa Claus melon, Persian melon, and cantaloupe.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is a member of the muskmelon family. There are two types: Cucumis melo reticulatus (North American) and Cucumis melo cantalupensis (European).
While all cantaloupes are muskmelons, the opposite is not true.
Though they might be similar from the name to the taste, cantaloupe has some specific values that make it stand out from the rest of the muskmelon family.
| Characteristics | Muskmelon | Cantaloupe |
|---|---|---|
| Variety | Includes cantaloupe and other types of melon |
|
| Color | Varies |
|
| Flesh | Orange, yellow, and green flesh | Orange flesh |
| Taste | Tends to be sweeter | Less sweet and softer |
What are the nutritional facts of cantaloupe vs. honeydew muskmelon?
| Nutrient | Honeydew | Cantaloupe |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 61 | 53 |
| Fiber | 1.5 grams | 2 gram |
| Carbs | 15 grams | 13 gram |
| Protein | 1 grams | 1 gram |
| Vitamin C | 34% of the RDI | 64% of the RDI |
| Vitamin A | 2% of the RDI | 29% of the RDI |
| Potassium | 8% of the RDI | 9% of the RDI |
| Folate | 8% of the RDI | 8% of the RDI |
| Niacin | 4% of the RDI | 7% of the RDI |
| Vitamin B6 | 9% of the RDI | 7% of the RDI |
| Magnesium | 4% of the RDI | 5% of the RDI |
| Thiamine | 5% of the RDI | 5% of the RDI |
| Vitamin K | 4% of the RDI | 3% of the RDI |
SLIDESHOW
Foods That Aren't as Healthy as You Think See Slideshow9 health benefits of muskmelon and cantaloupe
1. Helps with weight control
Muskmelon and cantaloupe are low in fat and calories, which makes them beneficial for weight loss.
They keep you full for longer, thus preventing unhealthy food cravings.
2. Hydrating
Muskmelon is high in water content, which helps you maintain adequate hydration, especially in hot weather.
3. Boosts immunity
Muskmelon strengthens the immune system to help the body fight diseases.
The vitamin A and phytochemical content in muskmelon and cantaloupe help maintain gut health, which is directly associated with immune system function.
Muskmelon is also rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity by stimulating the production and action of white blood cells in the body.
4. Has anti-inflammatory properties
Melon extracts contain superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant that helps combat oxidative damage to cells.
They also contain a significant amount of vitamin A, which helps delay the aging process.
5. Protects the eyes
Since muskmelon is rich in vitamin A, it is beneficial for eye health and can help improve eyesight and prevent cataracts.
Studies have shown that regular consumption of foods high in vitamin A can reduce the risk of cataracts by 40%.
6. Promotes heart health
Melons are rich in potassium, which regulates blood pressure and keeps the heart healthy.
They are also rich in a compound called adenosine, which has blood-thinning properties to prevent blood clotting in the cardiovascular system.
7. Helps maintain gut health
Muskmelon and cantaloupe are high in fiber, which is excellent for maintaining gut health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can help with healthy digestion.
8. Reduces stress
Muskmelon contains minerals such as potassium that can help relieve stress and have a relaxing effect on the body.
9. Promotes healthy skin and hair
Muskmelon is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help keep skin and hair healthy by promoting cell turnover and reducing sebum production.
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What are the risks associated with muskmelon and cantaloupe?
Cantaloupe has a higher likelihood of being contaminated by listeria, bacteria that can cause listeriosis. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, muscle pain, and digestive issues.
Cantaloupe is an excellent source of potassium. However, excess consumption of potassium can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia, which can be harmful to the kidneys and the heart.
How to eat muskmelon and cantaloupe
The most popular way to eat muskmelon and cantaloupe is raw, either alone or mixed with other fruits as a fruit salad.
Other ways to eat melons include:
- Adding it to a green salad
- Blended and chilled as a soup
- Blended with other fruits to make a smoothie
- Pureed and frozen in molds to make popsicles
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Muskmelon. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/muskmelon
Health Benefits of Cantaloupe. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cantaloupe
Cantaloupe. https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/cantaloupe-health-benefits
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