Calories in Honeydew Melon: Nutritional facts for Honeydew Melon Types

A 100g serving of raw honeydew melon contains 36 calories.

One kilogram (1000g) of raw honeydew melon contains 360 calories.

A whole medium honeydew melon (1000g) contains 360 calories. Commercial packaged options vary, as a serving of Del Monte Fresh Cut Honeydew Melon (140g or 1 cup) contains 50 calories, while a serving of Dole Honeydew Chunks (113g or 4oz) provides 40 calories. A container of Whole Foods Market Honeydew Chunks (227g or 8oz) has 80 calories.

A cup of diced honeydew melon (170g) contains 61.2 calories.

Honeydew melon possesses a nutritional profile rich in water and electrolytes, offering specific physiological advantages. An overview of these health assets is provided here.

• Supports Hydration: The fruit consists of approximately 90% water, which aids in maintaining fluid balance and body temperature regulation. A study by Popkin, B. M., et al. (2010), "Water, hydration, and health," confirms that water intake from fruits and vegetables contributes significantly to total body hydration status.
• Promotes Skin Health: Honeydew provides Vitamin C, a cofactor required for collagen synthesis and skin elasticity. A review by Pullar, J. M., et al. (2017), "The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health," highlights that adequate Vitamin C intake protects the skin from oxidative stress and supports structural integrity.
• Maintains Vision: The fruit contains lutein and zeaxanthin, phytonutrients that accumulate in the retina. A study by Ma, L., et al. (2012), "Lutein and zeaxanthin intake and the risk of age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis," indicates that these carotenoids reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Specific health risks associated with sugar content and potential contamination exist regarding honeydew melon consumption. An examination of these dietary drawbacks is detailed below.

• High Fructose Content: Honeydew contains fructose, a fermentable sugar that can trigger digestive distress in individuals with malabsorption issues. A study by Gibson, P. R., et al. (2007), "Fructose malabsorption and the bigger picture," identifies fruit fructose as a common trigger for bloating and abdominal pain in sensitive populations. A healthier alternative for those with sensitivity is berries. A suggested amount is to limit consumption to one cup (170g) per sitting.
• Risk of Bacterial Contamination: The rough, netted rind of some melon varieties can harbor bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella, which may transfer to the flesh during cutting. A report by Bowen, A., et al. (2006), "Infections associated with cantaloupe consumption: a public health concern," notes that melons are susceptible to surface contamination that requires careful washing before preparation.

Yes, honeydew melon is safe for diabetics when consumed in moderation because the glycemic load per serving remains low despite a moderate glycemic index. The fiber content helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A study by Atkinson, F. S., et al. (2008), "International tables of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2008," assigns honeydew melon a glycemic index of 62, which is moderate, but a low glycemic load of 9 per 120g serving. Portion control is critical for maintaining stable blood glucose. A review by Bantle, J. P., et al. (2008), "Nutrition recommendations and interventions for diabetes," advises that monitoring total carbohydrate intake is the primary strategy for glycemic control, allowing for fruits like melon within a balanced meal plan.

Yes, honeydew melon helps lower blood pressure due to the high concentration of potassium and low sodium content. The fruit delivers 388mg of potassium per cup, an electrolyte that counteracts the hypertensive effects of sodium. A meta-analysis by Aburto, N. J., et al. (2013), "Effect of increased potassium intake on cardiovascular risk factors and disease," found that increased potassium intake significantly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults. The hydration factor also supports vascular function. A study by Binia, A., et al. (2015), "Daily potassium intake and sodium-to-potassium ratio in the reduction of blood pressure," confirms that a diet with a favorable sodium-to-potassium ratio, supported by fruits like melon, lowers the risk of hypertension.

Yes, honeydew melons are good for health because the fruit provides a hydrating source of Vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins with a low caloric density. The fruit's impact on cardiovascular health is positive due to the electrolyte balance which supports blood pressure regulation. A study by Adrogué, H. J., & Madias, N. E. (2007), "Sodium and potassium in the pathogenesis of hypertension," emphasizes the protective role of potassium-rich foods against cardiovascular disease. Regarding immune health, the Vitamin C content strengthens defense mechanisms. A review by Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017), "Vitamin C and Immune Function," notes that the vitamin accumulates in phagocytic cells to enhance microbial killing. For weight management, the high water volume promotes satiety. A study by Rolls, B. J., et al. (2014), "What is the role of portion control in weight management?," demonstrates that low-energy-dense foods like melons allow for satisfying portion sizes without excessive calorie intake.

The sugar concentration determines the calorie count of a honeydew melon variety. Golden honeydew melons have the highest calorie value at 40 calories per 100 grams, a consequence of the higher brix (sugar) levels bred into this specific cultivar. Orange-fleshed honeydew contains a calorie value of 38 calories per 100 grams, representing a hybrid profile that incorporates the density of cantaloupe. Standard green-fleshed honeydew contains the lowest calorie value at 36 calories per 100 grams, representing the baseline for the fruit with the highest water content.

Honeydew differs from cantaloupe primarily in skin texture, flesh color, and beta-carotene content. A visual inspection reveals that honeydew possesses a smooth, pale rind and green flesh, whereas cantaloupe features a netted, rough rind and orange flesh. Nutritional analysis shows that cantaloupe contains significantly more Vitamin A (beta-carotene) than honeydew due to the orange pigment. Flavor profiles also diverge, with honeydew offering a sweeter, more subtle taste compared to the musky, aromatic flavor of cantaloupe.

The lineage of honeydew melon traces back to the Middle East and Western Asia, although exact origins remain debated between West Africa and ancient Persia. The fruit was cultivated by the Egyptians as early as 2400 B.C., appearing in tomb hieroglyphics. The specific "Honeydew" cultivar gained prominence in France as the "White Antibes" melon before being introduced to the United States in the early 1900s. The name "Honeydew" was coined by American seedsmen to market the sweet, pale fruit to a broader audience.