Washington: A new study has suggested that watermelon can reduce atherosclerosis.

University of Kentucky researchers, including one of Indian origin have claimed that an experimental group of mice with diet-induced high cholesterol, who were given watermelon juice to drink for eight weeks, had lower body weight than the control group of mice fed with water, due to decrease of fat mass.

Lean mass did not decrease, and plasma cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower, with modestly reduced intermediate and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations.

It was also revealed that the animals also experienced statistically significant reductions in atherosclerotic lesions.

“Melons have many health benefits,” lead investigator Dr. Sibu Saha said.

“This pilot study has found three interesting health benefits in mouse model of atherosclerosis. Our ultimate goal is to identify bioactive compounds that would improve human health.”