Watermelon is summer’s ultimate fruit. It is refreshing, hydrating, and really juicy – if you find the perfect one. It’s common for most of us to diligently pluck out each seed before enjoying the fruit. But instead of tossing them away, you should actually eat them. Here are the reasons why:
#1: The seeds are good for your health.
It may come as a surprise, but watermelon seeds have many health benefits. They are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including:
Amino Acids
The seeds contain arginine, lysine, glutamic acid, tryptophan, and other essential amino acids that the body can’t produce on its own. These amino acids have their own benefits, such as with arginine, it can improve metabolism and sexual and heart health.
Magnesium
100 grams of watermelon seeds can provide 139% of magnesium RDA. The mineral is for our cardiovascular health and can help normalize our blood pressure.
Lycopene
This antioxidant has many benefits, including boosting our heart health as well as male fertility.
B Vitamins
The seeds are also rich in various B vitamins, including niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, thiamine, and riboflavin.
Anti-Diabetes
Boil some watermelon seeds in a liter of water for about 45 minutes. Keep the pot covered and you can drink the liquid every day to treat diabetes.
#2: Watermelon seeds can improve skin health and appearance.
Munching on the seeds can keep your skin glowing and looking healthy from the inside:
Unsaturated Fatty Acids
These fats can help keep the skin moisturized, firm, and soft, while preventing acne and other skin problems.
Antioxidants
The antioxidants in the seeds can maintain your skin’s youthful glow and can prevent skin aging.
Oil
The oil in the seeds can help eliminate dirt, grease, and sebum in the pores of the skin.
#3: Watermelon seeds are also beneficial for your hair.
Consuming the seeds can help keep your hair healthy, so it will not be prone to breakage and will look shiny and strong.
Copper
The seeds have copper, which aids in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair and skin color.
Oil
Aside from the uses of oil in the skin, it can also be beneficial to your hair and scalp. It can speed up the growth of your hair and improve its moisture, so that it looks beautiful.
Of course, you shouldn’t eat the seeds straight from the fruit. They need to be sprouted, shelled, and even dried. Some prefer them roasted, while others brew them for tea.