Honeydew vs. Cantaloupe: Which Summer Melon Is Healthier? 

Green foods are notoriously known for being healthy, and honeydew melon is no different. This summer melon is high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. 

"It also contains vitamin B6 and folate, which have both shown importance in brain function and preventing Alzheimer's disease1," registered dietitian Brenna Wallace, M.S., RDN, LDN, tells mbg. 

Orange might not signal "health food" the way green does, but Wallace says the orange pigment of cantaloupe actually indicates that it's rich in beta-carotene.

Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that gives carrots, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe their orange hues. Once it's in the body, it converts to vitamin A and benefits eye health, red blood cells, and helps manage inflammation, Wallace says. 

Since vitamin C isn't naturally produced in the body, integrative medicine doctor Taz Bhatia, M.D., recommends eating cantaloupe to increase the nutrient intake and support healthy aging.

Honeydew and cantaloupe have a similar texture and appearance—aside from color. This is because they come from the same species of fruit, Wallace explains. Both are high in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium, fiber, and folate.

Cantaloupe contains slightly fewer natural sugars and more than half the vitamin A and vitamin C levels of honeydew. However, when it comes to fruit, registered dietitian Jenna Gorham, R.D., L.D., says sugar shouldn't be a deciding factor. "For those that do need to track carbohydrates for medical purposes, per cup, cantaloupe has three grams less carbs compared to honeydew," she says.

In terms of taste? "Each melon is mildly sweet with a similar firm and smooth texture," Wallace says. "However, some people find that cantaloupe is slightly less firm than honeydew.”

Honeydew and cantaloupe are good sources of fiber, potassium, and vitamins. They're also both hydrating and juicy, which makes them so satisfying in warm summer months. 

Though it mainly comes down to personal preference, Gorham says cantaloupe stands out for its high vitamin A and vitamin C content—making it slightly more nutrient-dense than honeydew.

Whichever melon variety suits your palate, know that you can't really go wrong with these vibrant, healthy fruits.