Watermelon is a summer fruit that is hard to resist when it’s too hot. It is sweet and high in water, making it the ideal summer fruit. But do not discard its seeds. Watermelon seeds have many health benefits.
When we think of watermelon, it’s just the pink part of the summer fruit that comes to mind. Indeed, when you open it, you immediately keep the seeds aside to throw them in a trash can. This is a habit you should give up because watermelon seeds have several health benefits. Like sunflower seeds and chia seeds, watermelon seeds can also be eaten for good health. Let’s find out how watermelon seeds can help you be healthy.
Health Shots contacted Ankita Ghoshal Bisht, Dietitian in Charge, Primus Super Specialty Hospital, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi to find out all about watermelon seeds.
Health benefits of watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds can often be overlooked, but you would be surprised to know that they are a rich source of nutrients. Here are five potential health benefits of watermelon seeds.
1. Heart health
Watermelon seeds are an excellent source of magnesium. It plays an important role in maintaining a healthy heart by regulating blood pressure and supporting a healthy heart rhythm, says Bisht.
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2. Immune System Support
Zinc is crucial for a strong immune system, so you’ll be happy to know that it’s found in abundance in watermelon seeds. Immune cells that help fight infections and any disorder are produced and activated with the help of zinc.
3. Digestive Health
Watermelon seeds contain fiber and unsaturated fats, which can help support digestive health and promote healthy bowel movements.
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4. Healthy skin and hair
Thinking of using watermelon face masks? It’s not just the app that’s useful. Watermelon seeds are rich in protein and essential fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and hair, says the expert. These nutrients can also help reduce inflammation and prevent acne.
5. Bone health
We know that to have strong and healthy bones we need calcium, and watermelon seeds contain this mineral. Besides bone health, it is also necessary for muscle function and proper nerve signaling.
How to eat watermelon seeds?
You might be wondering if you should eat them raw or add them to a dish. Well, you can bake watermelon seeds to make them edible. Salt or other seasonings can be added to watermelon seeds after cooking to enhance flavor, suggests the expert.
Another way to eat watermelon seeds is to grind them into a powder and sprinkle them on healthy salads or other nutritious foods.
Watch how many watermelon seeds you eat
Bisht says you can eat watermelon seeds regularly because they are an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, healthy fats, and protein. But do not consume them in large quantities as they are also high in calories. It is crucial to ensure that they are consumed in moderation. So stick to around 30 grams or about a third of a cup of watermelon seeds for daily consumption. Roasted or sprouted watermelon seeds are healthier because they are easier to digest and contain more nutrients.
In general, watermelon seeds are safe to eat and have many health benefits. However, watermelon seeds should be avoided completely or used sparingly by some people.
* They have a high fiber content, so watermelon seeds are best avoided by those who suffer from stomach problems like irritable bowel syndrome.
* Watermelon seeds can also trigger allergic reactions in people who are allergic or intolerant to the seeds.
* They also contain high amounts of potassium, which can be harmful for people with kidney disease. Thus, those with kidney problems or those receiving kidney dialysis may need to limit their intake of watermelon seeds.
The majority of people find watermelon seeds to be a nutritious snack, but if you have any health concerns or pre-existing conditions, you should talk to your doctor before eating them.