After enjoying the red squishy juicy part of the melon, dig in the nutritious seeds for more health benefits.
These small black seeds are easy to get and eat because they are taste-friendly. There are also various ways of preparing them so you can have them in your preferred state.
They are rich in nutrients magnesium, zinc, and iron, and have zero side effects on health.
They are low in calories so they cannot mess with your fitness and weight goals.
Benefits of watermelon seeds for men's health
1. Reduce the risk of prostate cancer
They contain the organic chemical compound Lycopene which has been studied to have potent anti-cancer properties. A 2015 study revealed that Lycopene can be essential in preventing the development or onset of prostate cancer to a significant extent.
2. Boosts male fertility
The powerful zinc content in watermelon seeds can improve the functioning of the male reproductive system. Zinc boosts cell growth and improves the activity in the nervous system. For this reason, it can improve sperm quality which is a major problem in male infertility. It also helps in fighting mood and mental disorders that can cause disturbances in sexual activity.
3. Strengthening hair
It is unclear if watermelon seeds have a direct effect on balding. However, they are high in nutrients such as copper and proteins that improve hair quality, growth and strengthening.
4. Increase energy levels
Did you know that you can eat watermelon seeds as snacks when you feel hungry to boost your energy? They are great replacements for sugary energy beverages and snacks. The micronutrients in these seeds give the body more fuel to function for longer periods.
5. Preventing osteoporosis
Men are more prone to injury than women. This doesn't mean they have weaker bones but boosting bone health can minimise injury impact. Daily consumption of watermelon seeds can cushion you from bone disorders and conditions like osteoporosis.
6. Skin health
These seeds have antioxidants and vitamin C properties that are used in beauty products to treat early aging and acne. The magnesium present in them helps overall skin appearance. They are also natural moisturising agents. The zinc in watermelon seeds slows aging by way of synthesising proteins, cell division, and repair.
How to eat watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds can be eaten raw, sprouted, and roasted. However, they are best consumed and preserved roasted.
When roasting, sprinkle some salt to make a tasty snack.
Apart from roasting, they can be used to make more elaborate snacks.
Watermelon seeds bar
- Roast the seeds in a pan over medium heat until they adopt a reddish hue.
- Pour them into a bowl and add thick sugary syrup.
- Coat the pan in healthy cooking oil and pour the mixture on the pan over medium heat. Once they form a thick cake, cut it into bars for sweet crunchy snacking.
Watermelon seeds rice
- Dry roast the seeds with red chilies in a pan.
- Pour them into a bowl and add salt and sugar.
- Grind the mixture into a consistent coarse powder.
- Add oil to a pan and add some curry leaves, lentils, and mustard seeds.
- Add peanuts and fry over low heat until the mixture turns dark brown.
- Add cooked rice to the coarsely ground watermelon seeds powder and mix well.
- Serve.