4 Benefits Of Watermelon Seeds
Do you throw away your watermelon seeds? After you have eaten this sweet fruit, the seeds are often just tossed in the garbage — what a waste! 4,000 years ago in Ancient Egypt, people cultivated watermelons just to eat the seeds, not the fruit. In Taiwan and China, extra-large modified watermelon seeds are a popular snack! The reason is simple: they are healthy!
Here are four reasons why you shouldn't throw watermelon seeds away:
1. Relieve Constipation / Reduce Swelling
Dietary fiber helps maintain normal intestinal function and plays an effective role in relieving problems such as constipation, and watermelon seeds are chock-full of dietary fiber. The seeds also contain plenty of potassium which regulates the water balance in our body, helping to reduce swelling in the feet and ankles.
2. UV Protection / Anti-Aging Effect
Seeds contain vitamin E which promotes skin metabolism and prevents spots and freckles. Furthermore, vitamin E's antioxidant properties keep our skin healthy and have anti-aging effects. The seeds are also rich in magnesium, which can reduce acne by improving your skin's barrier function.
3. Strengthen Hair / Aid Male Fertility / Stress Relief
Watermelon seeds contain vast amounts of zinc, which is crucial for sperm and testosterone production. The seeds also contain citrulline, which helps widen blood vessels carrying nutrition to our heads, thereby strengthening our hair.
4. Strengthen Immune System / Reduce Stress
Do you feel like you’re constantly catching a cold? You might have an iron deficiency. Watermelon seeds are perfect as a convenient source of iron and keep us from catching colds. The seeds are also filled with tryptophan — used to make the neurotransmitter serotonin — and other important minerals. Tryptophan also revitalizes and relaxes our brain; it's sometimes used to treat stress and clinical depression.
The health benefits of watermelon seeds are incredible! Especially since they're usually just thrown away. So, the next time you eat watermelon, don’t forget to try the seeds as well!