Can you feed watermelon to bearded dragons?
Feeding your bearded dragon watermelon is an excellent source of hydration as watermelon is 92% water. Watermelon makes a great treat for bearded dragons, but should not be a main nutrition source. Watermelon is a good source of beta carotene and vitamin C which boost the dragon’s growth, vision and growth processes.
How much watermelon can bearded dragons eat?
Consisting of 92% water, watermelons can be fed once a month or less frequently. They still get a few key vitamins and minerals from watermelon. There’s risk of diarrhea, obesity or metabolic bone disease from excess phosphorus inhibiting calcium absorption. Bearded dragons can eat watermelon rarely as a treat. Typically they can have a few pieces once a month. Bearded dragons get vitamin C and beta carotene from it, strengthening immune system, vision, reproduction and growth.
Can other animals eat watermelon?
Dragon fruit tastes sweet, sour and tart. Its flesh can be scooped out and eaten. Yes, parrots can eat dragon fruit without problems and it offers health benefits. But start with small amounts to check for reactions. Bearded dragons shouldn’t eat watermelon rind or seeds as it’s hard to digest.
Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit produced by several cactus species. It has a bright red or purple exterior with green scales. The interior can be yellow, purple or white with black seeds. There are sweeter and more sour varieties. It tastes similar to a cross between a kiwi and a pear.
Fun Facts
Harvesting requires care due to the spikes. The flowers bloom only once at night and are pollinated by bats and moths.
Choosing and Using Dragon Fruit
To choose a ripe dragon fruit, look for bright, evenly-colored pink skin. It should be slightly soft but not mushy. You can eat it fresh, freeze-dried into powders or chips, or juice it. It can also be used in smoothies, drinks, desserts and salads.
Dragon fruit is hydrating due to its high water content. It’s loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. The seeds are edible, adding a nice crunch.
The yerba mate plant is a species of holly called Ilex paraguariensis. It is used to make a tea-like beverage popular in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil.
Yerba mate contains:
- Caffeine like coffee or tea
- High levels of vitamins
- Nutrients like polyphenols
Too much mate may cause side effects though since it has caffeine. Locals may drink up to 4 liters per day but most people should not drink that much. Moderation is recommended.
Some people replace drinks like coffee and tea with mate. The theobromine provides a stimulant effect but with less trouble sleeping or nausea than coffee sometimes causes.
The cancer risk of mate is still unclear. But research shows its antioxidants may help prevent cancer rather than cause it. Overall, mate is a healthy herbal drink that is delicious and refreshing.
About Yerba Mate
The leaves of the yerba mate plant are used to make a beverage called mate. Mate has an herby and earthy flavor. The flavor of mate may slightly vary depending on how it was grown and brewed.
Mate contains:
- Caffeine
- Antioxidants
- Vitamins and minerals
The origins of mate drinking are filled with folklore. It was originally consumed by ancient indigenous tribes in parts of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina.
Preparing and Drinking Mate
When drinking mate, use hot but not boiling water, around 75-80°C. The leaves can be refilled about 10-20 times before losing flavor.
Some people may experience side effects from too much caffeine like anxiety, so moderation is recommended. Pregnant women, those with anxiety issues or heavy smokers/drinkers should be cautious with mate.