Eating Watermelon This Summer? Don’t Throw Away Its Healthy Seeds!

Summer is a time for outdoor activities, family gatherings, and refreshing treats like watermelon. This juicy fruit is not only a delicious way to stay hydrated but also a great source of nutrients that our body needs. However, did you know that the seeds of the watermelon are as healthy as the fruit itself?

We understand that you may have a love-hate relationship with the seeds. After all, they can be quite pesky to remove while you're enjoying the juicy fruit. Most people discard them, but they are missing out on a powerhouse of nutrients that can benefit their health. In this blog, we will explore the numerous health benefits of watermelon seeds and how you can incorporate them into your diet. We'll also discuss how you can use them in your skin and hair care routine.

Watermelon seeds: A powerhouse of nutrients

Watermelon seeds are packed with nutrients that are essential for our body. Here is a breakdown of the nutrients found in watermelon seeds:

1. Protein: Watermelon seeds are an excellent source of protein, with around 1 gram of protein per 28 grams of seeds. They also contain essential amino acids that our body needs for the growth and repair of tissues.
2. Minerals: Watermelon seeds contain several essential minerals, including magnesium, iron, potassium, and zinc. Magnesium helps regulate blood pressure, maintain bone health, and keep the heart healthy. Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells, while potassium helps regulate fluid balance in the body. Zinc is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and wound healing.
3. Healthy fats: Watermelon seeds are a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are good for the heart and can help lower bad cholesterol levels in the body.
4. Antioxidants: Watermelon seeds are also rich in antioxidants, including lycopene. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause diseases like cancer and heart disease.

How to incorporate watermelon seeds into your diet?

Now that you know about the numerous health benefits of watermelon seeds, here are some ways you can incorporate them into your diet:

• Roast them: Roasting watermelon seeds can bring out their nutty flavor and improves the availability of nutrients present in the seeds to the body. It can also make them a crunchy and delicious snack. Simply rinse the seeds, pat them dry, dry roasted in a pan on medium flame for few minutes and roast them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. You can also add spices like salt, pepper, or chili powder for extra flavor.
• Add them to your smoothies: Watermelon seeds can add a protein boost to your smoothies. Simply blend the seeds into your favorite smoothie recipe, and you are good to go. For example, you can add them to a watermelon smoothie with yogurt, honey, and mint for a refreshing and nutritious drink.
• Sprinkle them on your salads: Watermelon seeds can add a delicious crunch to your salads. Simply sprinkle them over your favorite salad and enjoy. For example, you can add them to a watermelon and feta cheese salad with arugula, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil for a sweet and savory combination.

Also try: Watermelon cucumber salad

Watermelon seeds for skin and hair care

Watermelon seeds not only provide excellent nutrition but can also serve as a useful addition to your skin and hair care routine. Here's how:

Watermelon seeds for skin care

Watermelon seeds contain essential fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid, which can help improve the skin's texture and prevent acne. These seeds are also rich in antioxidants, which actively help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Here's how you can use watermelon seeds for your skin:

• Grind the Seeds: Grind a handful of watermelon seeds into a fine powder and mix it with yogurt or honey to make a paste. Apply the paste to your face and neck, leave it on for 10–15 minutes, and rinse it off with warm water. It will help exfoliate your skin, remove dead skin cells, and leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
• Use as a Toner: Watermelon seed oil is a great natural toner for the skin. It helps balance the skin's pH levels and tightens pores. Simply apply a few drops of watermelon seed oil to a cotton ball and apply it to your face after cleansing. It will help remove any remaining impurities and leave your skin feeling refreshed.

Watermelon seeds for hair care

Watermelon seeds are also great for your hair. They are rich in essential fatty acids and minerals that can help promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss. Here's how you can use watermelon seeds for your hair:

• Make a hair mask: Grind a handful of watermelon seeds into a fine powder and mix it with coconut oil or olive oil. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp, massage it in, and leave it on for 30 minutes. It will help nourish your hair and scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote healthy hair growth.

Also check: Simple hair masks for healthy hair!

• Use as a hair oil: Watermelon seed oil is a great natural hair oil that can help keep your hair healthy and shiny. Simply apply a few drops of watermelon seed oil to your hair and scalp, massage it in, and leave it on overnight. Wash your hair in the morning with a gentle shampoo, and you'll notice the difference.

Conclusion

Watermelon seeds are a great source of nutrition that most people overlook. They are packed with protein, minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants that can benefit your health. In addition to incorporating them into your diet, you can also use them for your skin and hair care routine. Next time you relish a juicy watermelon, keep in mind that its nutritious seeds should not be thrown away. Instead, roast them, add them to your smoothies, sprinkle them on your salads, or use them for your skin and hair care. Your body will thank you for it!