Various varieties of melons are available in the market, especially during summer. Honeydew melons look like cantaloupes or muskmelons. Melons belong to the family Cucurbitaceae and they are so watery, fleshy and sweet that they don't need to be combined with other fruits. Melons grow on vines and they grow well in semiarid climates. Flesh and skin of a honeydew melon is pale green in color while that of a cantaloupe is orange. Health benefits of honeydew melon and that of a cantaloupe are almost similar. Honeydew Melon for Babies Honeydew melon is rich in vitamins and minerals which can prove to be helpful for a growing baby. Babies can be fed melon puree or mashed melon; as the flesh is very soft. Honeydew melon is loaded with vitamin A, beta carotene, luteine and zeaxanthin which ensure strong vision and smooth skin for the growing baby. Calcium from the melon helps strengthen the teeth and bones of the baby. Babies have weak immune system as compared to adults. Antioxidants from the melon help strengthen the immune system and thus help prevent diseases. The melon is also high in Vitamin C which helps improve eye health and boost iron and calcium absorption; which is essential for a baby's growth. B vitamins and other minerals like zinc, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, etc., help maintain the overall health of the baby. Vitamins E and K help develop strong hair and smooth skin. Honeydew melon contains about 90% water. So it helps keep the baby well hydrated during summer. Honeydew Melon for Pregnancy Honeydew melon is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. During pregnancy, the need for nutrients increases significantly. Pregnant women need to consume healthy fruits and vegetables which offer lots of antioxidants, nutrients and fiber. The immune system of a pregnant women is comparatively weaker. Due to the growing size of the uterus, a pregnant woman may suffer from digestion problems. Fiber in melon helps prevent constipation. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants from honeydew melon can strengthen the immune system of both the mother and the fetus. Honeydew melon is rich in folate which promotes rapid division of new cells. One cup (about 177 g) of honeydew melon contains about 34 mcg folate. Women, in fact, need to increase their intake of folate as soon as they decide to get pregnant. Folate prevents or reduces certain birth defects like neural tube defects. The melon can provide about 12% of daily requirement of potassium, which can ensure heart health. A pregnant woman's heart should pump blood throughout the body efficiently. Consumption of one cup melon provides ample vitamin C (half of the daily vitamin C requirement) which also helps strengthen the immune system. It thus, helps prevent infections and diseases during pregnancy. Not only pregnant women but people in general can also enjoy the health benefits of honeydew melons through regular consumption. Honeydew Melon for Weight Loss If you take into consideration the calories in melon, then you will find that half cup of honeydew melon contains only 60 calories. So it can be included in any kind of weight loss diet. Those who find it difficult to reduce the volume of the food, can consume honeydew melon when on diet. It is low in calories and full of water (about 90%) and fiber; which promotes weight loss. It keeps you satiated for a longer period of time. It helps curb your appetite and thus, lowers the chances of excessive eating and weight gain. B vitamins from the melon help get rid of toxins from the body. They enhance the function of the nervous system and boost energy production. Copper from the fruit offers you smooth glowing skin and also promotes strong muscles and tissues. To reap these health benefits, you need to incorporate honeydew melon in your diet. Honeydew melon is a fruit with almost all essential nutrients and it is a fruit for all.