Muskmelon is a species of melon that belongs to the gourd family, it is related to other fruits such as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin, and squash. On the other hand, cantaloupe is a variety of muskmelon. Usually, cantaloupes refer to two distinct varieties of muskmelon: the North American cantaloupe, which has a net-like skin and less distinct flavour, and the European cantaloupe, which has light green skin and sweeter flavour.
Nutritional Profile of Muskmelon and Cantaloupe
A cup of any variety of muskmelon has roughly 60 to 70 calories, 15 to 20 grams of carbs, 1 to 2 grams of fibre, 1 gram of protein, 34% of the daily value of vitamin C, 8% DV of potassium, 8% DV of folate, 4% DV of niacin, 9% DV of vitamin B6, and 4% DV of magnesium, along with thiamine and vitamin K.
A cup of freshly cut cantaloupe has 50 to 60 calories, 2 grams of fibre, 13 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, 64% DV of vitamin C, 29% DV of vitamin A, 9% of potassium, 8% of folate, and 7% DV of niacin, along with vitamin B6, magnesium, thiamine, and vitamin K. From their nutritional composition, we can see that cantaloupes and muskmelon have similar nutrients. However, cantaloupe has slightly fewer carbs and calories, more fibre, and more vitamins A and C.
Appearance of Muskmelon and Cantaloupe
Muskmelons are usually spherical in shape and have light green, yellow, or orange outer skin. Whereas cantaloupes are round in shape and have either a light brown or pale yellow outer skin. Usually, muskmelons tend to be smaller than cantaloupes. The flesh of both of these fruits is juicy and sweet. However, muskmelon tends to be sweeter than cantaloupes.
Health Benefits of Muskmelon and Cantaloupe
Muskmelon- Muskmelon has a high water content, which makes it the perfect summer snack as it keeps the body hydrated for long periods of time. All varieties of this fruit are a rich source of vitamins A and C, along with other essential nutrients that boost our immunity by stimulating the production of white blood cells in the body.
Muskmelon is also a rich source of potassium, a mineral that helps control blood pressure and keep the heart healthy. Its high water and fibre content, along with low carbs and calories make it the perfect food to promote weight loss as it increases regular bowel movement and makes us feel fuller for a long period of time.
Cantaloupe- Cantaloupe contains several antioxidants which help reduce inflammation related to chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis by removing free radicals from our body, which reduces oxidative stress and cell damage. It is a rich source of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential nutrients that play a major role in maintaining healthy skin. While vitamin C helps with the production of collagen, vitamin A protects the skin from sun damage.
Regularly eating cantaloupe helps slow down the progression of age-related macular degeneration because it contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which helps protect our vision and promote eye health. Studies have shown that the beta carotene present in cantaloupes also prevents age-related respiratory issues.
Conclusion
Both muskmelon and cantaloupes have similar nutritional and health benefits. Both of these fruits are enjoyed around the world during summer because of their sweet and refreshing taste and their cooling effects on our bodies. Cantaloupes and muskmelons are enjoyed on their own and in fruit salads, and in most cases are interchangeable unless a recipe demands one over the other.
