Watermelon seeds - composition and useful properties, preparation, use and contraindications! Are watermelon seeds healthy? Are watermelon seeds dangerous?

Everyone knows the value and nutritional value of watermelon pulp for the human body. But most gourd culture lovers have never even thought about whether watermelon seeds can be used and are there any health benefits and harms in them?

Few have tried black grains, they are not attractive in appearance, but due to their useful qualities they deserve serious attention.

From this article you will learn:

Composition, useful properties of watermelon seeds

Are watermelon seeds healthy?

Any person, eating the pulp of a watermelon, throws out its grains, without even thinking about whether there is any benefit in watermelon seeds. Experts in the field of nutrition consider such a dismissive attitude towards this product to be undeserved. If we evaluate the constituent substances of grains in the field of application of the product, then the question of the benefits of watermelon seeds for the body disappears by itself.

To understand how watermelon seeds are useful, you need to study their rich chemical composition:

• A high protein content (almost 60% of the daily human value) and many amino acids are necessary for normal growth and maintenance of muscle mass, replenishment of energy by the body.
• One of the useful amino acids - arginine - has a positive effect on the heart muscle, normalizes blood pressure, and reduces the risk of a heart attack.
• The benefits of watermelon seeds are due to a sufficient amount of pectin, which helps to bind and remove salts of heavy metals from the body.

  The complex of minerals and trace elements has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the whole organism, ensures the normal activity of the stomach and intestines.

• Fatty acids are a good source of oil for the body.
• Watermelon kernels contain magnesium, which regulates blood pressure and glucose levels.
• Zinc supports the immune system in good shape, ensures the normal condition of the skin, hair and nails.
• Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which are involved in the process of hematopoiesis.
• The kernels of gourds contain semi-fiber (hemicellulose), which includes a large amount of polysaccharides that do not dissolve in water. Thanks to them, grains have a cleansing effect on the body.

The benefits of watermelon seeds for the human body

• Striped berry grains are considered an excellent prophylactic for many pathologies, including the pancreas, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. Regular consumption of seeds prevents the development of obesity and the occurrence of diabetes.

In folk medicine, the product is valued as a diuretic that prevents the development of urolithiasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties are also known, which are used to prevent and treat infections of the genitourinary system.

To understand how watermelon seeds are useful for women, their cosmetic properties should be noted: regular consumption of grains helps maintain skin tone, strengthens hair and nails, and improves metabolic processes. The product is able to reduce inflammation in the female body, successfully fights uterine bleeding.

The use of watermelon seeds

Watermelon grains have a wide range of applications. Official and alternative medicine uses watermelon seed kernels for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes:

• decoctions and medicinal teas are made from them for kidney and bladder dysfunction;
• ground seeds dried in the oven with milk are used against uterine bleeding;
• raw seed tincture is considered an effective anthelmintic;

The crushed seeds of the striped berry are used both as an independent remedy and in tandem with other natural medicines.

• in cosmetology, various masks and scrubs are made from ground seeds. They supply the dermis with the necessary nutrients and microelements, make the skin smooth and velvety, smooth fine wrinkles.

Of particular value to humans is watermelon seed oil, which contains a lot of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, minerals, vitamins A, E, C, B. The product is added to taste in various dishes, sauces, casseroles, muffins are made on its basis, they use it for marinades. The oil has all the medicinal and cosmetic properties of the seeds themselves.

Why should you eat watermelon with bones?

Interesting

In the cuisine of the countries of the Middle East and Asia, gourds are considered a common food additive. In some regions of Africa, they are added to soup as a condiment. In China, roasted seeds are widely consumed as a nutritious snack, sometimes they are dried with the addition of spices. The Japanese have long considered them to be functional foods. The culinary specialists of our country use them less actively. One of the novelties of the culinary industry is instant muesli and cereals with flax and watermelon seeds.

Medicinal properties of watermelon seeds

1. Watermelon seeds for pressure.

Not many people know how to use watermelon seeds in the treatment of certain diseases. High blood pressure is also subject to treatment with watermelon grains. This is a natural product that has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, protects the heart from any disease.

To prepare a remedy:

• Dry the rind and seeds of the watermelon;
• Grind them into flour.

Reception course: twice a day, 0.5 teaspoon.

A month later, blood pressure will completely return to normal.

2. Watermelon seeds for worms.

Recipe:

• To prepare the remedy, the grains of the striped berry are dried in the oven;
• Grind into flour;
• Combine with milk in a ratio of 1:10;
• Drink on an empty stomach 2 glasses a day.

Course duration: 2 weeks.

Another healing antidote is considered to be a decoction of watermelon seeds from worms, which will help to get rid of this delicate problem forever.

Are watermelon seeds harmful?

Even taking into account all the advantages of the product, watermelon seeds can bring not only benefits, but also harm.

Whether watermelon seeds are useful in a particular case or harmful, only a doctor should decide, based on a person’s disease and contraindications for his health.

Can you eat watermelon with white seeds?

Some lovers of the striped delicacy associate the presence of white seeds in watermelon with the content of nitrates and chemicals in it. White watermelon seeds are due to other reasons:

• Such grains can be in an unripe watermelon if it was removed from the melon too early.
• Another reason for the appearance of white grains is the work of breeders. In some plant varieties (especially European, Turkish) there are soft white watermelon seeds, they do not affect the taste and quality of the fruit, the harm and benefits of such seeds are similar to ordinary black ones.

It is better to refuse unripe watermelon with colorless grains. And specially grown varieties can and should be used.

How many seeds are in a watermelon?

Even breeders cannot give an exact answer to this question. The number of seeds in each fruit depends on many factors: the variety of watermelon, its growing conditions and terrain, the maturity of the fruit, etc. Therefore, if you ask a melon grower why there are a lot of seeds in a watermelon, he will most likely associate this with the large size of the fruit and excellent maturity .

How to dry watermelon seeds?

When raw, melon grains quickly become moldy. To preserve the beneficial properties of the product for a long time, watermelon seeds must be dried. To do this, use an oven or a special dryer.

• Seeds are pre-washed;
• Place on paper towel to drain excess liquid.
• The grains are cooked in the oven for about 30 minutes at a temperature of 80 degrees.

For those who want to know how to dry watermelon seeds without an oven: the kernels are laid out on a clean sheet of paper and dried in the sun until fully cooked. This process is longer and requires certain weather and low humidity.

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones, is it harmful?

Watermelon seeds benefit and harm

When thinking about the health benefits of watermelon, we tend to forget about the benefits of its seeds. Their benefits are quite different from those of the sweet, juicy flesh of the fruit. With information about the nutrients in watermelon seeds and their health benefits, you might consider not spitting them out.

Watermelon is eaten almost everywhere, but in most places, its seeds are simply spit out. In Asian and Middle Eastern countries, watermelon seeds are harvested, dried, and roasted for food. Watermelon seeds are also used in making soups or other healthy foods.

Nutritional value of seeds

Watermelon seeds contain a variety of nutrients, including fatty acids, proteins, and minerals. 100 g of watermelon seeds contain approximately 600 calories, as in 10 loaves of bread. About 400 calories come from the fat in watermelon seeds. The fat content in 100 g of seeds is about 80% of the daily fat diet.

About a third of the seeds are proteins, mostly very important proteins like lysine.

Watermelon seeds are a good source of vitamin B (thiamine, niacin, folate). Watermelon seeds are rich in minerals such as magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, iron, potassium, and copper. 100 g of watermelon seeds provide about 139%, 87%, 82%, 74%, 44%, 20% and 37% of the daily dietary value of these minerals, respectively. Watermelon seeds are also a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for healthy gut function and digestion.

Health Benefits of Seeds

Besides being a good snack, watermelon seed has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including bacterial infection, kidney problems, skin and hair problems. Watermelon seed oil is popular in Africa. Good source of amino acids and phytochemicals.

Watermelon seeds are rich in magnesium, and 100g of seeds provide about 139% of your daily magnesium intake. Magnesium is responsible for the normal functioning of the heart, increasing normal blood pressure, supporting energy metabolism and protein synthesis. It has a beneficial effect in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension. Magnesium regulates carbohydrate metabolism, which controls blood sugar and diabetes.

The seeds are equivalent to multivitamin B complex supplements. Some of the B vitamins present in watermelon seeds include niacin, folate, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid. About 100 g of seeds provide 19% of the daily value of niacin, which is important for maintaining the digestive and nervous systems, as well as skin health.

Source of dietary fiber

Watermelon seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, both insoluble and soluble fibers. It is helpful in smooth bowel movements and treating constipation. It is also helpful in removing toxins and cholesterol from the body.

1Anti-inflammatory properties of watermelon seeds. Watermelon seeds are considered a sedative or a substance that relieves irritation of the mucous membrane in the mouth. The lipids in watermelon seeds help form a protective mucosal layer and thus reduce inflammation. Laboratory studies with rats confirmed the strong anti-inflammatory activity of watermelon seed oil and comparability with standard diclofenac. The study suggests a potential application in the creation of a natural anti-inflammatory drug.

Watermelon seeds are traditionally used to treat edema. As a home remedy for edema, a teaspoon of dry ground watermelon seeds powder is consumed with honey.

2Antimicrobial properties of seeds. In Sudan, watermelon seeds are traditionally used to treat bacterial and fungal infections such as gastrointestinal infection, diarrhea, respiratory and skin diseases. Laboratory studies in 2011 with an organic solvent-based seed extract showed it to be effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, including E. coli. This antimicrobial property can be attributed to the phytochemical terpenes and steroids present in the seeds.

3Diabetes treatment. Watermelon seeds are traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes. Watermelon seed tea is prepared in 30-45 minutes - 2-3 teaspoons of seeds in 2-3 cups of water. This decoction is believed to control blood sugar levels and diabetes. Recent studies have shown that watermelon seeds have high antioxidant properties that have a protective effect on the pancreas and help treat diabetes.

Also watermelon seeds:

Today, watermelon seed oil is used in hair care products as a non-greasy moisturizer.

Contraindications

The harmful effects of watermelon seeds are due to the amino acid citrulline they contain.

When it breaks down in our body, ammonia is released. In a healthy person, it is painlessly excreted in the urine, but with pathologies of the kidneys, bladder, the amino acid can do great harm. Whole watermelon is harmful to people with citrullinemia.

Watermelons are loved by both children and adults for their sweetness and freshness. At the same time, most people spit out the bones in the process of eating, believing that they cause some harm to their body. In fact, they do it completely in vain, since the bones have many useful properties, and they have no less advantages than the pulp.

Let's try to figure out whether it is possible to eat a watermelon with seeds, and what benefit or harm can be derived from this?

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones: general information

Most often, after eating a delicious watermelon slice, we throw the peels along with the seeds into the trash can. As it turned out, it was completely in vain, because with our own hands we get rid of the most useful and valuable product that could help our body in the fight against a large number of ailments.

Watermelon pits are what we pay the least attention to after eating the berry itself, trying to get rid of them as soon as possible and trying not to bite. Often in such cases, the question arises: is it possible to bite or swallow them at all, do the seeds carry any threat to the human body? After all, sometimes this, albeit by accident, still happens. Many from deep childhood remember how adults told them that in no case should they swallow seeds, because then they “grow a watermelon in their stomach.”

In fact, this is far from the case, nothing bad will happen to a person if he suddenly swallows a few watermelon seeds, and on the contrary, this will bring considerable benefits to his body! Don't believe? Now we will convince you of this!

What does watermelon seeds taste like? In part, it is similar to sunflower "brothers", but peanuts would be a more suitable option.

Since ancient times, watermelon pits have been traditionally used in the cuisines of the Middle East and Asia, they are quite popular in some African countries, namely in Sudan, Egypt and Nigeria. From them learned to produce flour and butter. But their main purpose is still a snack, eating them without a shell. Also, a fairly common option is their drying and roasting. Ultimately, you can get a product that has a lot of nutrients, which can be a worthy alternative to the usual harmful chips or salty sticks.

Most people still believe that watermelon seeds should not be consumed, if only for the reason that they can cause inflammation of the appendix. This stereotype has been instilled in them since childhood, and until now all people are trying to spit out all the bones, despite the fact that this is not very convenient. In fact, this stereotype was disproved by medicine a long time ago, but the majority of people still continue to believe in it.

Of course, in theory, seeds can cause appendicitis, but the likelihood of this fact is so low that you should not even focus on it.

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones: benefits

As we mentioned above, the bones of this delicious berry have many useful properties. We offer to understand in more detail why they are so useful?

1. A few dried watermelon seeds are 1/3 protein, which allows them to contain a large amount of amino acids, which, in turn, play a crucial role in the growth and development of muscle tissue. In addition, they take part in the synthesis of the energy needed for the body. The most beneficial among the amino acids present in the seeds is arginine. It is very important for the good functioning of the heart, helps in regulating blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiac ischemia several times over.

2. Tryptophan, glutamic acid and lysine also play an important role among the amino acids that are present in watermelon seeds. 100 g of the product contains about 30 g of protein, which equates to 60% of the required daily allowance for the human body.

3. Watermelon seeds contain a large amount of fat, namely in 100 g of the product - 51 g.

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones

Among them, a special role should be given to Omega-6, which is able to reduce high blood pressure.

4. At the same time, the seeds are distinguished by a high content of B vitamins, which play an important role in the transformation of the food consumed by a person into the energy he needs. 100 g of the product contains 3.8 mg of niacin, which is 19 daily values. Niacin is of great value because it has a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract, has a significant impact on the health of the skin.

5. Also of great importance in the use of these seeds is a rich mineral composition. 100 g of the product contains 556 mg of magnesium, which is 139% of the daily value. Magnesium plays an important role in the regulation of blood pressure, promotes the absorption of carbohydrates and reduces blood sugar levels.

6. This product also contains other useful microelements in different amounts, such as potassium, copper, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, and iron.

7. The presence of dietary fiber in the seeds is also of great importance, which has a positive effect on the digestive system.

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones: harm

In addition to the many positive qualities and advantages in the use of watermelon seeds, you can find some minor disadvantages. Yes, eating the seeds is definitely beneficial. But not everyone.

For example, the product contains citrulline. This amino acid, when broken down in the human body, promotes the release of ammonia, which cannot be called a useful substance. For a healthy person, ammonia is unlikely to cause many problems and will most likely leave the body along with urine. But if a person has a kidney or bladder disorder, citrulline can harm the body.

For this reason, people who have kidney problems or suffer from citrullinemia, the use of watermelon seeds is highly undesirable. The same applies to pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under three years of age.

Watermelon seeds - benefits and harms

Nutritionists believe that the neglect of watermelon seeds is the result of ignorance of their beneficial properties, while the benefits of watermelon seeds for the human body have been established for a long time. In addition, cooked in a certain way, they become an unusual wonderful delicacy.

They are especially useful for those who constantly play sports or are associated with frequent physical exertion. Their use will be an ideal opportunity to replenish energy.

What are the benefits of watermelon seeds?

They found a large number of useful substances:

• the seeds of this berry contain almost 60% of the daily value of protein, which is involved in replenishing the body with energy and the formation of muscle tissue, which confirms the view that watermelon seeds are beneficial;
• watermelon seeds contain arginine - a substance related to amino acids and directly affecting the functioning of the heart. It normalizes blood pressure and prevents ischemia;
• they contain polyunsaturated acids, including omega-6, which affects blood pressure indicators in the direction of their reduction, as well as reducing the risk of atherosclerosis by removing cholesterol plaques from the walls of blood vessels.

Watermelon seeds contain a complex of minerals and trace elements that have a beneficial effect on the activity of the whole organism. Among them, magnesium, which acts as a "regulator" of blood pressure and glucose levels.

Zinc, which is part of the bones, helps to strengthen the immune system, has a positive effect on the condition of hair, nails and skin. Iron in watermelon seeds is actively involved in hematopoiesis, and B vitamins and a whole set of amino acids keep the nervous system in a balanced state.

Who Shouldn't Eat Watermelon Seeds?

However, watermelon seeds can bring not only benefits, but also harm.

1. It is worth noting that watermelon seeds are contraindicated for those who suffer from kidney disease.

   Is it good to eat watermelon pits with watermelon? Why?

   This is due to the presence of citrulline in the bones - an amino acid that is absolutely useless, according to doctors, which, moreover, can also harm such people, as it disrupts the functioning of the bladder.

2. Watermelon seeds will not bring benefits, but can cause serious harm to those who are obese, since watermelon seeds are high in calories: 100 g of seeds contain 557 kcal, which is more than a third of the daily calorie intake.
3. They are also contraindicated for pregnant women, mothers who are breastfeeding, as well as children under the age of three. This is due to the increased content of protein in them, as well as the presence of the already mentioned amino acid - citrulline.
4. As for office workers and anyone whose activities lead to physical inactivity, as well as retirees who like to spend a lot of time sitting on a bench, they would be better off limiting their consumption of seeds. This is due to the fact that the bones of watermelon, which are distinguished by undoubted benefits, can cause significant harm to these categories of people due to their high calorie content and a significant level of protein.

An excellent delicacy can be obtained if watermelon seeds are fried with salt. If you like sweets more, then raw or fried bones should be dipped in honey, let it drain, and then dry well. However, remember that watermelon seeds, whose benefits have been confirmed by many years of research, can be harmful to health if consumed in excess or neglected the restrictions associated with your health condition.

Almost all adults and children love watermelons for their fresh and juicy flesh. But everyone neglects the bones, spitting them out, believing that they harm our body. Since childhood, many of us have been scared by our parents that if you eat watermelon seeds, you can earn a lot of trouble, up to inflammation of the appendix. However, this is all fiction.

In fact, watermelon seeds have long been used in both cooking and medicine. They are crushed into powder, oil is made from it, fried and consumed like sunflower seeds. And the range of diseases in which it is advised to eat watermelon seeds is so wide that it affects both the common cold and serious diseases.

From this article you will learn:

Are watermelon seeds healthy?

Watermelon pits are a real pantry of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and useful trace elements, as well as vitamins:

• Potassium,
• Calcium,
• Carbohydrates (15.29 gr. per 100 gr.),
• Phosphorus,
• Iron,
• Magnesium,
• Zinc,
• Vitamin B1 thiamine
• B9 folic,
• Fats (47.4 gr. per 100 gr.),
• Proteins (28.3 gr. per 100 gr.),
• Saturated fatty acids (9.78 grams per 100 grams).

Traditional medicine appreciates watermelon seeds for their ability to remove urea from the body and prevent urolithiasis. For men, watermelon pits are beneficial in that they normalize the activity of the prostate gland and contribute to the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

On a note! A third of the total mass of dried watermelon seeds are proteins that contain a large amount of amino acids that play an important role in the growth and development of muscle tissue.

What happens if you eat watermelon with seeds?

When eating a juicy watermelon, everyone strives to get rid of annoying seeds. And by the way - in vain! A cup of these seeds contains a quarter of the total daily dose of protein, which is useful for every person, and doubly so for athletes. By the way, such a portion can easily be considered a full meal, thanks to its energy value and the fats contained in watermelon seeds. Therefore, if you lead an inactive lifestyle, you should not lean on them.

In the countries of the Middle East, Asia and Egypt, watermelon seeds are especially often used in cooking. Here they learned to make butter and flour from them. But traditionally, seeds are used as a snack - they are clicked after a little roasting or drying. To taste, they resemble peanuts rather than sunflower seeds that are familiar to us.

Is it possible to swallow watermelon seeds and are they digested?

In various sources, information about whether it is possible to swallow whole watermelon seeds is extremely scattered. Someone claims that in no case should this be done - the seeds are not digested. However, in fact, they are well absorbed and help cleanse the gastrointestinal tract from undigested food. Therefore, you can safely swallow the seeds whole with the peel.

Watermelon seeds carry not only benefits, but also harm.

Is it possible to eat watermelon with bones

Due to their high fat content, they are not recommended to be included in the menu of pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as to feed them to children under three years of age. In addition, watermelon seeds contain the amino acid citrulline. Our body synthesizes this trace element on its own, so scientists argue whether it is necessary to receive it from the outside. And the breakdown product of citrulline is ammonia, which is not completely absorbed by the body, it is excreted only with urine, which acquires a pungent odor under its action. Also, oxalate and phytin were found in watermelon seeds - salts that prevent our body from absorbing minerals.

Watermelon seeds are an excellent remedy for worms, they create an environment impossible for worms to live. And also help in the recovery of the body after this disease.

Can you eat raw watermelon seeds?

Raw seeds contain semi-fiber, rich in water-insoluble polysaccharides, which are extremely beneficial for our body, it is she who cleans it so well. Raw seeds do not have to be peeled, but then you will have to try and chew them more thoroughly to get to the nutrients inside the kernel.

Watermelon seeds: health benefits and harms, recipes for use

Everyone knows the value and nutritional value of watermelon pulp for the human body. But most gourd culture lovers have never even thought about whether watermelon seeds can be used and are there any health benefits and harms in them?

Few have tried black grains, they are not attractive in appearance, but due to their useful qualities they deserve serious attention.

From this article you will learn:

Composition, useful properties of watermelon seeds

Are watermelon seeds healthy?

Any person, eating the pulp of a watermelon, throws out its grains, without even thinking about whether there is any benefit in watermelon seeds. Experts in the field of nutrition consider such a dismissive attitude towards this product to be undeserved. If we evaluate the constituent substances of grains in the field of application of the product, then the question of the benefits of watermelon seeds for the body disappears by itself.

To understand how watermelon seeds are useful, you need to study their rich chemical composition:

• A high protein content (almost 60% of the daily human value) and many amino acids are necessary for normal growth and maintenance of muscle mass, replenishment of energy by the body.
• One of the useful amino acids - arginine - has a positive effect on the heart muscle, normalizes blood pressure, and reduces the risk of a heart attack.
• The benefits of watermelon seeds are due to a sufficient amount of pectin, which helps to bind and remove salts of heavy metals from the body. The complex of minerals and trace elements has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the whole organism, ensures the normal activity of the stomach and intestines.
• Fatty acids are a good source of oil for the body.
• Watermelon kernels contain magnesium, which regulates blood pressure and glucose levels.
• Zinc supports the immune system in good shape, ensures the normal condition of the skin, hair and nails.
• Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which are involved in the process of hematopoiesis.
• The kernels of gourds contain semi-fiber (hemicellulose), which includes a large amount of polysaccharides that do not dissolve in water. Thanks to them, grains have a cleansing effect on the body.

The benefits of watermelon seeds for the human body

• Striped berry grains are considered an excellent prophylactic for many pathologies, including the pancreas, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. Regular consumption of seeds prevents the development of obesity and the occurrence of diabetes.

In folk medicine, the product is valued as a diuretic that prevents the development of urolithiasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties are also known, which are used to prevent and treat infections of the genitourinary system.

To understand how watermelon seeds are useful for women, their cosmetic properties should be noted: regular consumption of grains helps maintain skin tone, strengthens hair and nails, and improves metabolic processes. The product is able to reduce inflammation in the female body, successfully fights uterine bleeding.

The use of watermelon seeds

Watermelon grains have a wide range of applications. Official and alternative medicine uses watermelon seed kernels for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes:

• decoctions and medicinal teas are made from them for kidney and bladder dysfunction;
• ground seeds dried in the oven with milk are used against uterine bleeding;
• raw seed tincture is considered an effective anthelmintic;

The crushed seeds of the striped berry are used both as an independent remedy and in tandem with other natural medicines.

• in cosmetology, various masks and scrubs are made from ground seeds. They supply the dermis with the necessary nutrients and microelements, make the skin smooth and velvety, smooth fine wrinkles.

Of particular value to humans is watermelon seed oil, which contains a lot of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, minerals, vitamins A, E, C, B. The product is added to taste in various dishes, sauces, casseroles, muffins are made on its basis, they use it for marinades. The oil has all the medicinal and cosmetic properties of the seeds themselves.

Interesting

In the cuisine of the countries of the Middle East and Asia, gourds are considered a common food additive. In some regions of Africa, they are added to soup as a condiment. In China, roasted seeds are widely consumed as a nutritious snack, sometimes they are dried with the addition of spices. The Japanese have long considered them to be functional foods. The culinary specialists of our country use them less actively. One of the novelties of the culinary industry is instant muesli and cereals with flax and watermelon seeds.

Medicinal properties of watermelon seeds

1. Watermelon seeds for pressure.

Not many people know how to use watermelon seeds in the treatment of certain diseases. High blood pressure is also subject to treatment with watermelon grains. This is a natural product that has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, protects the heart from any disease.

To prepare a remedy:

• Dry the rind and seeds of the watermelon;
• Grind them into flour.

Reception course: twice a day, 0.5 teaspoon.

A month later, blood pressure will completely return to normal.

2. Watermelon seeds for worms.

Recipe:

• To prepare the remedy, the grains of the striped berry are dried in the oven;
• Grind into flour;
• Combine with milk in a ratio of 1:10;
• Drink on an empty stomach 2 glasses a day.

Course duration: 2 weeks.

Benefits of watermelon seeds

Another healing antidote is considered to be a decoction of watermelon seeds from worms, which will help to get rid of this delicate problem forever.

Are watermelon seeds harmful?

Even taking into account all the advantages of the product, watermelon seeds can bring not only benefits, but also harm.

Whether watermelon seeds are useful in a particular case or harmful, only a doctor should decide, based on a person’s disease and contraindications for his health.

Can you eat watermelon with white seeds?

Some lovers of the striped delicacy associate the presence of white seeds in watermelon with the content of nitrates and chemicals in it. White watermelon seeds are due to other reasons:

• Such grains can be in an unripe watermelon if it was removed from the melon too early.
• Another reason for the appearance of white grains is the work of breeders. In some plant varieties (especially European, Turkish) there are soft white watermelon seeds, they do not affect the taste and quality of the fruit, the harm and benefits of such seeds are similar to ordinary black ones.

It is better to refuse unripe watermelon with colorless grains. And specially grown varieties can and should be used.

How many seeds are in a watermelon?

Even breeders cannot give an exact answer to this question. The number of seeds in each fruit depends on many factors: the variety of watermelon, its growing conditions and terrain, the maturity of the fruit, etc. Therefore, if you ask a melon grower why there are a lot of seeds in a watermelon, he will most likely associate this with the large size of the fruit and excellent maturity .

How to dry watermelon seeds?

When raw, melon grains quickly become moldy. To preserve the beneficial properties of the product for a long time, watermelon seeds must be dried. To do this, use an oven or a special dryer.

• Seeds are pre-washed;
• Place on paper towel to drain excess liquid.
• The grains are cooked in the oven for about 30 minutes at a temperature of 80 degrees.

For those who want to know how to dry watermelon seeds without an oven: the kernels are laid out on a clean sheet of paper and dried in the sun until fully cooked. This process is longer and requires certain weather and low humidity.

Useful properties of watermelon seeds for the body: are there any contraindications, chemical composition, what and how they can be cured, how tasty it can be cooked.

Do not rush to throw away watermelon seeds, they can be cooked very tasty, and also used for other purposes. Watermelon seeds, properly prepared, will be a complete substitute for sunflower seeds or peanuts. In addition, this dessert is absolutely free. With roasted melon seeds, you can have a good time in front of the TV or with a can of beer.

Some people love watermelon, some do not, but they eat it a lot (especially in summer and autumn) and it is not an exotic fruit.

In its red juicy sugar flesh, there are always a lot of dark brown hard large seeds "sitting". Simply chewing them with watermelon pulp is unpleasant and not tasty. Should they be thrown away? Can they be eaten? Do they have healing properties? Let's figure it out.

Properties of watermelon seeds

All the substances that make watermelon useful are present both in the pulp and in the seeds, and even in the rind of the watermelon.

For example, biological substances that increase the alkalinity of urine and affect the cleansing of the urogenital area: salt toxins dissolve in the kidneys and are excreted in the urine. Also, in addition to the diuretic effect, watermelon seeds have an antiseptic anti-inflammatory effect. They taste no worse than sunflower seeds, they can also be fried, dried and salted. So, we can safely talk about both the healing and culinary properties of watermelon seeds.

By the way, for the first time I ate dried watermelon seeds in Thailand, they are sold there like pumpkin seeds in any stores! But in Russia they are thrown away for some reason.

The composition and calorie content of watermelon seeds

25 g - 150 kcal, but with 100 g it turns out - all 600 kcal

It is more pleasant to eat dried watermelon seeds. At the same time, they do not lose their properties: vitamins and microelements are preserved. They even contain healthy fats - polyunsaturated (including omega-6), monounsaturated, and saturated.

The calorie content of watermelon seeds per 100 g is 560-600 kcal, so there:

Proteins - 28.3 g
Fats - 47.4 g
Carbohydrates - 15.29 g
Saturated Fatty Acids - 9.78 g
Water - up to 5 g
Ash - up to 4 g
Fiber is not contained at all, but a lot of vitamins and useful micro and macro elements.

Vitamins:

Vitamin B1 thiamine - 0.2 mg
B2 riboflavin - 0.15 mg
B3 nicotinic acid - 0.35 mg
B6 pyridoxine - 0.09 mg
B9 folic - 58 mcg
PP - 3.5 mg

Macronutrients:

Phosphorus - 750 mg
Calcium - 55 mg
Potassium - 650 mg
Magnesium - 514 mg
Sodium - up to 100 mg

Trace elements:

Iron - 7.3 mg
Manganese - 1.62 mg
Copper - 690 mcg
Zinc - 7.3 mg

Raw watermelon seeds contain hemicellulose, the more common name is semi-cellulose, and so it contains polysaccharides that do not dissolve in water and enhance the cleansing properties of seeds. Although we know that watermelon is not an oil crop, its seeds still contain 20-40 percent oil. The properties are reminiscent of almond.

The benefits and harms of watermelon seeds

Traditional medicine appreciates this watermelon product because it perfectly removes uric acid from the body. This medicinal property prevents the appearance of urolithiasis. Seeds are especially useful for men, because they support the function of the prostate gland, and due to the content of selenium and zinc, they prevent the development of adenoma and normalize sexual function.

The protein content (approximately 35%) indicates a sufficient content of amino acids to maintain muscle mass and replenish the energy expended by the body. There are four useful amino acids in watermelon seeds: tryptophan, glutamic acid, lysine and arginine. The latter supports the heart muscle and normalizes blood pressure, reduces the risk of heart attack.

Less effective, but still, the beneficial substances of watermelon seeds help improve vision, maintain the health of eyes, nails, skin, and hair. They improve metabolism, the functioning of the nervous system and are very well known as an anthelmintic.

Watermelon, including all its components (pulp, seeds, rind), contains the controversial amino acid citrulline in terms of usefulness. The fact is that when it enters the food tract, it is converted into L-arginine, which our body is able to synthesize on its own. The benefits of citrulline include the ability to lower blood pressure, dilate blood vessels, they treat impotence, it affects blood glucose levels. But there is also a controversial side - harm to people with impaired citrulline synthesis.

Studies have shown that citrulline is broken down in the body with the release of a “bad” product - ammonia. It is excreted in the urine, but it is this fact that proves the harmfulness of the pulp and seeds of watermelon for patients with citrullinemia, which is associated with the urea cycle.

How to cook watermelon seeds

The most popular recipe is to fry them. Before cooking, the seeds are washed and dried on a towel, for example. Then, pour them into a heated dry frying pan and fry for about 6 minutes until they begin to darken. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in ¼ cup of water and pour this mixture into the pan. Continue frying until the liquid is gone. Turn off the heat, cool the watermelon seeds and serve.

Anthelmintic prescription: before preparing the product, watermelon seeds are dried in the oven, then crushed and mixed in a ratio of 1:10 with skim milk. The resulting "cocktail" is drunk during the day at least 2 glasses. They drink on an empty stomach.

Folk recipe for hypertension: dried seeds and watermelon peel, then grind them into powder. Take it for half a teaspoon 2 p. in a day. If you take the powder constantly for one month, then the pressure will normalize. Also, the recipe acts as a choleretic agent, but you need to use the powder for 2 or 3 teaspoons in the morning and before bedtime.

In general, in the cooking of other countries, watermelon seeds are used more actively. The Chinese, for example, fry them with various seasonings, in Africa they crush them and add them to soups and sauces.

Preparing watermelon seeds at home is very simple.

To do this, you need the ingredients:

watermelon seeds - 1 cup
salt - 1 teaspoon
0.5 cups of water

How to Make Delicious Salted Watermelon Seeds

Rinse the watermelon seeds well so that the pulp of the watermelon does not remain on them. Use only ripe black seeds, white seeds are not suitable for food, they will burn during roasting. It is also advisable to take large watermelon seeds.

Spread the washed watermelon seeds on a dry towel (you can take a paper towel) and dry well, preferably in the sun.

Then the seeds must be roasted.

How to roast watermelon seeds

Heat a dry, oil-free skillet over medium heat and toast the seeds, stirring with a spatula, until they crackle and open easily.

Add water and salt, mix well again and fry, stirring until the water boils away completely, so that the seeds become dry again.

Watermelon seeds are usually sent along with the peels to the trash can. But it turns out that we are throwing away a very valuable product that could do a good service to the body. What exactly is the benefit and can there be harm from watermelon seeds?

Watermelon pits are something that is usually ruthlessly thrown away during the process of eating the fruit. At least they try not to chew them. Often the question is whether it is dangerous to swallow watermelon seeds, because this, despite the "vigilance", still happens. And many adults even tell children that they should not be swallowed, because "a watermelon will grow in the tummy." Meanwhile, it turns out that watermelon seeds can be eaten, and what's more - they can be very healthy!

What do watermelon pits taste like? Will it be necessary to make great sacrifices for the good? Not at all. They resemble sunflowers, but still a little closer to peanuts.

The bones are traditionally used in the cuisines of the Middle East and Asia, as well as in Sudan, Egypt and Nigeria. They can be made into flour and oil. But most often, watermelon seeds are eaten without a shell as a snack. Dried and fried, they make a delicious, nutrient-packed meal that can replace unhealthy chips and salty sticks.

Composition, nutritional value

The seeds of this giant berry are characterized by a nutritional value close to that of other seeds and seeds (and, remarkably, they significantly exceed the pulp of the fruit from this point of view). Watermelon seeds have a fairly high calorie content: 100 g (dried) is 557 kilocalories.

• They are high in protein—almost twice as much as sunflower seeds and almonds. In 108 g of dry seeds, there are approximately 30.6 g. For comparison, the same portion of chicken meat contains only 23 grams of protein.
• Watermelon seeds provide the body with a lot of arginine, an amino acid that helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. It is also important for people who are actively involved in sports, as it accelerates the regeneration of muscle cells due to their better supply of oxygen.

Men, take note. Arginine in watermelon seeds promotes the production of nitric oxide in the body and helps in the treatment of acute erectile dysfunction. The use of them and the pulp itself helps to maintain an erection and increases sperm production.

• Other amino acids found in watermelon seeds are tryptophan, glutamic acid, and lysine. The latter have a positive effect on mental abilities, improve concentration and reduce fatigue as a result of intense intellectual work.
• The fats found in watermelon seeds are saturated mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-6s. *Watermelon seeds provide a significant amount of magnesium: 30 g (added to, for example, oatmeal) meets 38% of the daily requirement for this substance.
• Bones are also an important source of iron, zinc, copper and manganese, B vitamins that control energy changes in the body and affect the functioning of the nervous system.
• In watermelon seeds, a very large number of chemical compounds have been found that have antioxidant properties that protect cells, proteins and DNA from free radical attacks. Thanks to this, they reduce the risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases and slow down premature aging. The antioxidants present in watermelon seeds are saponins, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.

Watermelon seeds: benefits and harms

What are the benefits of watermelon seeds in terms of alternative medicine?

You can make a healing tea from watermelon seeds. 20-30 seeds need to be dried, crushed and boiled for 15 minutes in 2 liters of water. The drink must be drunk within 2 days, then take a day off. The use of such tea for several weeks is designed to support the work of the kidneys.

According to Ayurvedic medicine, if you eat 1 teaspoon of watermelon seeds every day for 3-4 weeks in the morning and in the evening, it will lower blood pressure.

In folk medicine, watermelon seeds are used as an emollient and tonic.

Useful properties of watermelon seeds revealed by science

A very wide range of beneficial effects of these seeds is increasingly confirmed in scientific research. What is the benefit of watermelon seeds from the point of view of scientists?

Antimicrobial and antifungal activity

Watermelon seed extract is effective against bacteria and fungi, in particular Escherichia coli and Candida albican. Its action is comparable to the action of pharmacological drugs, for example, clotrimazole and gentamicin.

Antioxidant action

The powerful antioxidant potential of watermelon seed extract has been identified in studies using free radicals - DPPH and hydrogen peroxide.

Effect against diabetes

Watermelon seeds act on pancreatic cells and prevent their death. Because of this, they can be of significant importance in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. They lower blood glucose levels and increase insulin levels. Tannins, saponins and flavonoids, as well as soluble fibers are probably responsible for this action.

The effect of watermelon seeds on the treatment of gastrointestinal ulcers

Studies in rats have shown that the extract from these seeds is effective in treating stomach ulcers when compared to standard preparations. The positive effect may be due to inhibition of the secretion of juices and digestive enzymes, as well as a protective effect on cells.

Inhibition of prostate hypertrophy

The effect of watermelon seed extract on prostate shrinkage has been demonstrated in studies in rats. Histological examination clearly showed that the methanol extract from the seeds is a potential curative agent for the treatment of disorders caused by male sex hormones, in particular prostate hypertrophy.

Other Benefits of Watermelon Seeds

In addition to the health benefits backed by scientific research, watermelon seeds may also have other benefits stemming from their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This is what watermelon seeds can potentially be useful for the human body.

• Strengthening hair - the iron present in the bones contributes to the rapid growth of hair, and magnesium and copper are responsible for its healthy appearance and rich color. Fatty acids moisturize hair, prevent overdrying, brittleness and split ends.
• Glowing skin - unsaturated fatty acids prevent dehydration of the skin and rashes, make the face stop being gray and look healthy.
• Antioxidants take care of the protection against wrinkles, age spots and premature aging.
• Positive effect on the cardiovascular system - magnesium, potassium and iron are necessary for the proper functioning of the heart and cardiovascular system, and arginine helps to lower blood pressure levels.
• Positive effect on the nervous system due to the content of magnesium and B vitamins.
• Replenishing the lack of protein in a vegetarian diet - watermelon seeds are an excellent source of protein and can be a valuable element of a vegetarian diet.

Watermelon seed oil is also good!

Watermelon seed oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which have been confirmed in rat studies. The extract for a maximum of 3 hours caused a significant reduction in paw edema in animals. Its effectiveness is comparable to the effect obtained with the use of diclofenac, a well-known anti-inflammatory agent. Watermelon seeds inhibit the synthesis of serotonin, histamine and prostaglandins - the main mediators of inflammation.

In addition, watermelon seed oil is useful in that it has a protective effect on liver cells. After injecting rats with liver-toxic carbon tetrachloride and then a serving of oil for 10 days, there was a marked decrease in blood levels of liver enzymes, which are an indicator of organ failure. The activity of watermelon seed oil is comparable to that of silymarin, a compound known for its protective effect on the liver.

Watermelon seeds: when will they be harmful?

• Omega-6 acids are essential for the proper functioning of the body and have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. However, it is very important to remember to maintain the correct proportion of them with omega-3 fatty acids. An excess of omega-6 can negatively affect health - this should be remembered and kept in moderation.
• The presence of a small amount of oxalates and phytins, which hinder the absorption of minerals, was found in watermelon seeds.
• The high calorie content of watermelon seeds makes them a dubious treat for obese and overweight people who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
• The presence of the amino acid citrulline, which is synthesized by the human body, can create problems for people with citrullinemia. The same substance in a number of sources is called the basis for refusing to use healthy watermelon seeds by pregnant women, lactating women and children under 3 years old.

Watermelon pits: culinary use

Eating not only the pulp, but also the seeds and peel is a long tradition in Asia and Africa. So, in West Africa, the use of watermelon seed flour is popular, which serves to thicken soups. The seeds are also fermented to produce a sweet delicacy called ogiri. Another African delicacy, igbalo, is made from roasted grains wrapped in leaves and boiled. However, other people's culinary traditions are, of course, a curious experience, but not always acceptable. How can we use watermelon seeds to get both benefits and not create unnecessary difficulties?

Raw seeds are best peeled. In principle, they can be eaten with it, but in this case, you will have to chew them especially long and carefully in order to make it possible to use valuable nutrients for the benefit of your body. If you do not bother chewing, but swallow along with the pulp, then the bones will pass entirely through the gastrointestinal tract and can only benefit in the form of stool relief.

The most common culinary use of the pits is roasted and spiced. They can be eaten on their own, or added to a mixture of nuts and dried fruits and put, for example, in oatmeal or sprinkled over soups or salads.

How to roast watermelon seeds?

Roasting watermelon seeds at home is quite simple. It is necessary to spread the washed and dried seeds on a baking sheet covered with baking paper and place in the oven heated to 160 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes.

Seeds can be fried a little longer - to be more crispy.

Then season them to your liking, such as olive oil and a pinch of salt, lime juice and hot peppers, or, for the sweet version, cinnamon and a pinch of sugar.

Roasted watermelon seeds are the perfect snack to replace chips or crackers. True, they supply a similar amount of calories, but the nutritional value of the seeds is incomparably higher than that of salty snacks. In addition, 30g of chips that supply about 160 kcal is only 15 pieces, and 30g of watermelon seeds with the same calorie content is about 400, which means that the bones will have to be eaten much longer, resulting in chances of eating less of them. amount.

Watermelon pits are considered superfoods. They are highly nutritious and have a beneficial effect on health, providing our body with a lot of protein and healthy fat, as well as magnesium, iron, B vitamins and antioxidants. They have a wide, versatile effect on health: they lower blood sugar levels, provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, treat stomach ulcers, protect the liver from toxins, etc. Watermelon pits are easy to prepare and are fried with spices as an interesting snack. Thus, watermelon seeds are a scientifically proven benefit and only minor harm, and only under certain conditions. This should definitely be remembered on the eve of the season of berries adored by many and dried for the future for the whole year.

Watermelon is a non-waste product. Delicious candied fruits are prepared from the crusts, and the seeds are a healthy delicacy. All parts of the striped berry contain a large number of unique components, but the seeds also provide nutritional value. 100 grams of seeds contain more than half of the daily requirement of proteins and 85% of fats. The benefits of watermelon seeds have long been studied. Read about: the benefits of pumpkin seeds for the human body!

Composition of watermelon seeds

Any seed is intended by nature to create a new life. The nucleus carries a supply of vital elements that will serve as food for the embryo at the first stage of development. Therefore, in the seed, as in the pantry, active substances are collected in high concentration. A food treasure is hidden under the hard watermelon husk.

Before you can benefit from watermelon seeds, they must be freed from the husk. Therefore, eating watermelon pulp and swallowing the seeds at the same time will not bring benefits. Can you eat watermelon with seeds? Not worth it, you can get clogging and abdominal pain.

The energy value of the product is determined by the content of the main substances, and these are proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It was determined that in a standard portion of watermelon seeds they are presented in the following proportions.

1. The protein component is 30.6 g. These are the amino acids necessary for building muscle mass, which is 61% of the daily requirement of the body. Includes arginine, glutamic acid, lysine, tryptophan. Protein calorie content 117 kcal.
2. Fats make up 51 grams, including 11 grams of saturated, poly- and monounsaturated, including Omega-6, which covers 84.6% of the daily requirement and is 426 Kcal.
3. There are few carbohydrates in the seeds, only 15.31 grams, which is 61 Kcal and 6.1% of the daily requirement of the body.

The figures show that watermelon seeds are a high-calorie product, 600 Kcal is one third of the energy for a person who does not go in for sports and hard physical labor. However, watermelon seeds are valued for the beneficial properties of vitamins, minerals and biologically active elements present.

A number of B vitamins improve metabolism, affect metabolism, reproductive and brain activity of the body. There are few of them, fractions of milligrams, but catalysts are effective in small quantities:

• nicotinic acid - 3.55 mg - 17.8% of the daily requirement;
• folic acid - 0.058 mg - 14.5%;
• pyrodixin - 0.089 - 4.5%;
• pantothenic acid - 0.346 mg - 6.9%;
• riboflavin - 0.145 mg - 8.1%;
• thiamine - 0.19 mg - 12.7%.

Each of these vitamins acts on a specific function of the body. Basically, they contribute to the transfer of the energy component of food into physiological processes. Vitamins improve the functioning of the nervous system. The action of niacin has a beneficial effect on the skin, hair and nails.

But watermelon seeds are especially valued for the combination of microelements, which are not found in such quantities in any product. Some of the metals provide a standard portion of the daily requirement of the body. At the same time, minerals are also contained in the shell of the seed, so it is important to eat not only the core, but also the peel. This is the answer to the question, is it possible to eat watermelon seeds.

Zinc is especially useful for the male body. It also keeps the immune system in good shape. If hair began to fall off, fatigue and diarrhea appeared, zinc-containing foods should be included in the diet. Iron in plant foods is not enough. You can get it from watermelon seeds and meat and fish food. Iron is needed for the production of red blood cells in the hematopoietic system.

It is known that fibrous components for our digestive system are like a whisk for a janitor. In watermelon seeds, the cleaner is hemicellulose, which has a milder effect on the mucous membrane than ordinary fiber.

Importance of Citrulline in Watermelon Seeds

The benefits and harms of watermelon seeds largely depend on the content of the amino acid citrulline in the product. This substance is found in all components of watermelon, but it is also synthesized in the body itself. This substance is very necessary for the body. Therefore, bioadditives are used to stimulate the cardiac activity of athletes, to increase potency in men. It has already been proven that the use of citrulline in products or supplements:

• reduces hypertension;
• suppresses sickle-shaped anemia;
• normalizes blood sugar.

However, along with the benefits for healthy people, the use of seeds for individual citizens can become problematic. There are people whose body does not produce citrulline. The disease is called citrullinemia and is caused by a metabolic disorder. The metabolism of the incoming substance involves its conversion to arginine with a breakdown product containing ammonia. It is excreted in the urine and is irritating. This is the basis of the harmfulness of citrulline.

In West Africa, watermelon seeds are a staple in soups. In China, roasted watermelon seeds are an ingredient in many condiments.

Based on the complex effect on the human body, the beneficial properties of watermelon seeds have not been confirmed for people:

• patients with citrullinemia;
• pregnant women due to the presence of proteins and citrulline;
• breastfeeding mothers and children under three years of age;
• persons with diseases of the pancreas;
• people with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

If during the examination this amino acid is found in the patient's blood, then watermelon seeds are contraindicated. For people suffering from diseases of the urogenital area, the use of seeds for food should be limited.

How to fry the seeds?

Fry the washed and dried seeds in a dry thick-walled pan for several minutes until dark. Dilute a teaspoon of salt in 50 ml of water and stew the seeds in this solution until it boils away. There are seeds you need with a shell.

Toasted seeds can be used as an anthelmintic for preventive purposes, and during illness.

You can use dried seeds as a healthy addition to the menu, or as a treat. However, women have found other uses for this product. The composition, ground into flour, mixed with medical clay, produces effective cleansing procedures. The scrub is light, not traumatic, but effective.

Video about the benefits of watermelon seeds

There is at least one component of any ripe watermelon that most people ignore in terms of nutrition. I'm talking about watermelon seeds.

Provided that you are not pregnant, they are able to provide your body with the necessary nutrients and provide many benefits.

But this will only happen if you chew watermelon seeds instead of swallowing them whole.

Useful properties of watermelon seeds

Dried watermelon seeds are approximately 35% protein, which means they contain a large amount of amino acids (AA) necessary for the body to form and grow muscle tissue, to synthesize long-term energy, etc.

1. The amino acid arginine plays a particularly important role. Experts from the Mayo Clinic advise looking for foods with a high content of it. This AA is extremely beneficial for the heart, its presence in the body affects the level of blood pressure and the risk of coronary heart disease. Other beneficial amino acids that make up watermelon seeds are tryptophan, lysine, and glutamic acid.
2. One cup of seeds contains 30.6 grams of protein, which is 61% of the recommended daily value for an adult.
3. One of the most surprising facts about the nutritional value of watermelon seeds is the fat content. 1 cup of dried product contains 51 g of fat, including 11 g of saturated fat, as well as monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-6. The American Heart Association reports that unsaturated fats lower blood cholesterol levels, and omega-6s have the ability to lower high blood pressure.
4. Watermelon seeds are bound to contain B vitamins. Scientists from the American Cancer Society report that these vitamins are essential for the complex process of converting food into energy and for other important physiological processes.
5. Most of all in watermelon seeds niacin: in 1 cup of the product 3.8 mg, or 19% of the daily value. Niacin nourishes the nervous system, has a healing effect on the digestive tract, protects the health of the skin.
6. Other B-complex vitamins found in watermelon seeds are thiamine, folate, riboflavin, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and pantothenic acid.

Especially many useful properties of watermelon seeds owe their existence to a rich mineral composition.

• 1 cup of dried product contains 556 mg of magnesium (139% of the recommended daily value). According to the National Institutes of Health (USA), this mineral helps regulate blood pressure, is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, and has a beneficial effect on blood sugar.
• Other important minerals in watermelon seeds are phosphorus, iron, potassium, sodium, copper, manganese, and zinc.
• Zinc is essential for a healthy immune system. If your body is deficient in zinc, it manifests itself in hair loss, diarrhea and weakening of the defenses. Each adult should receive approximately 15 mg of zinc per day from food. 100 g of watermelon seeds contain as much as 10 mg of this beneficial trace element.
• Your body needs iron to produce red blood cells. There is a lot of it in watermelon seeds. Other sources of this trace element are oysters, beef, turkey, chicken, tuna, and pork. For an adult individual aged 19-50 years, the daily intake of iron is 8 mg. A deficiency of this mineral can lead to anemia, a feeling of weakness and eternal fatigue.

Another important component of watermelon seeds is dietary fiber. It is necessary for the health of the digestive tract. And this despite the fact that the body is not able to properly digest plant fibers. However, I mention the benefits of dietary fiber in almost every new article and I will not dwell here in more detail.

Controversial citrulline

All parts of watermelon, including the rind, pulp, and seeds, contain citrulline, a non-essential amino acid that is converted to L-arginine in the body. Why is this amino acid called non-essential? The fact is that our body is capable of its independent synthesis.

If you still prefer watermelon pulp, keep in mind that yellow and orange varieties of watermelons contain the maximum amount of citrulline. But why is it needed and is it needed at all, let's figure it out.

Citrulline managed to gain popularity, but in the circles of alternative medicine. It is often added to the diet of athletes, although clinical trials of the effect on athletic endurance have not been conducted. In alternative clinical practices, male impotence is treated with citrulline (6-18 mg of citrulline malate per day).

According to USDA experts, this AA acts as both an antioxidant and a vasodilator (vasodilator). It turns out that a serving of watermelon seeds has truly magical beneficial properties precisely thanks to citrulline: it reduces blood pressure, prevents the development of sickle anemia, and positively affects the concentration of glucose in the blood.

See also: Foods containing citrulline.

In our body, citrulline breaks down to release ammonia, a waste product that is excreted in the urine. Just this physiological fact is the reason for the proven harmfulness of not only watermelon seeds, but also watermelon pulp for some individuals.

A related study was conducted at the Meyer Children's Hospital and published in the 2005 Journal of Hereditary Metabolic Disorders.

It turned out that although citrulline is safe for most people, it can seriously harm people with citrullinemia, a genetic disorder of citrulline synthesis associated with the urea cycle in the human body.

How to roast watermelon seeds?

Roasted watermelon seeds are especially attractive and tasty. It's easy to cook them.

1. Rinse and dry the seeds on a clean kitchen towel.
2. Make sure they are really dry before frying.
3. Prepare saline solution: 1 tsp. salt to 1/4 cup water.
4. Put a dry frying pan on the fire, roast the seeds for 6 minutes until they begin to darken.
5. Pour in the saline solution and keep on fire until the water is gone.
6. Refrigerate and serve.

Watermelon seeds are a healthy and edible product. They are quite tasty, especially dried and fried. But everything is good in moderation, this should not be forgotten.

Watermelon seeds. Did you know that they have healing properties and are widely used to treat diseases? Read more

Watermelon seeds - useful properties and secrets of application

Watermelon is a tasty, healthy berry that has a special nutritional value.

For more information about the benefits of watermelon and how to choose the right one, read this

Few people realize what the benefits of watermelon seeds can be. It’s just that eating them with pulp is tasteless and not very pleasant.

However, it is still not worth throwing them away, as they can be used as a medicine that improves health.

This tool helps to provide the body with the required nutrients and bring maximum benefits.

They are also of great nutritional value, as they contain proteins and fats.

The chemical composition of watermelon seeds

The nutritional value of the product is determined by the content of fats, proteins and carbohydrates and useful vitamins and trace elements in its composition:

• Vitamin B1 thiamine - 0.2 mg
• B2 riboflavin - 0.15 mg
• B3 nicotinic acid - 0.35 mg
• B6 pyridoxine - 0.09 mg
• B9 folic - 58 mcg
• PP - 3.5 mg
• Phosphorus - 750 mg
• Calcium - 55 mg
• Potassium - 650 mg
• Magnesium - 514 mg
• Sodium - up to 100 mg
• Iron - 7.3 mg
• Manganese - 1.62 mg
• Copper - 690 mcg
• Zinc - 7.3 mg

What are the benefits of watermelon seeds?

The beneficial properties of watermelon seeds have long been proven:

1. They contain many amino acids required for normal growth and formation of muscle mass.
2. They also provide energy for the whole day.
3. Due to the content of pectin, this drug removes heavy metals from the body, and also helps to eliminate the effects of radiation.
4. Seeds should be consumed by people working in hazardous industries so that harmful substances do not accumulate in the body.
5. The vitamins that enter the body help strengthen the immune system, protect against the effects of stress, and also prevent the occurrence of allergies.
6. In addition, blood circulation improves, pressure decreases, the nervous system strengthens, and it also has a positive effect on the organs of vision.
7. Minerals ensure the normal activity of the stomach and intestines
8. Fatty acids are a good basis for obtaining oil, which is not inferior in quality to almond oil.

Watermelon seeds - medicinal properties and methods of application

Medicinal properties of watermelon seeds:

1. Dried watermelon seeds contain up to 30% of useful protein, which is why they contribute to the growth of muscle mass, the formation of bone mass, and also give a charge of vivacity and energy for the whole day.
2. Thanks to the content of arginine, this tool helps to regulate the level of pressure, and also prevents the formation of coronary disease.
3. Polyunsaturated fats help lower blood cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of atherosclerosis in old age.
4. Niacin is important for the normal functioning of the nervous system, digestive tract, beauty and radiance of the skin.
5. Magnesium evens out blood sugar levels, which is why this medicine is very useful for diabetes.
6. Zinc is important for improving immunity, giving hair beauty and shine. With a lack of this trace element, a person often begins to get sick. In addition, it helps with prostatitis, as it helps to improve sexual function in men.
7. Iron promotes the production of red blood cells, so the remedy is successfully used to treat anemia, helps to overcome depression, get rid of chronic weakness and fatigue.
8. The fibrous component of the product contributes to the normalization of the digestive system. Slags, toxins are removed from the body, stool normalization is noted. Vegetable fibers in the intestines act like a scrub, removing harmful substances from the body.

How to eat watermelon seeds to improve the body?

Before using the seeds, it is worth remembering that in order for the benefits to be maximum, the seeds should not be swallowed whole, but chewed - the dosage is 1-2 tablespoons per day.

However, to get the maximum benefit, you need to free the seed from a tough peel, which not only does not benefit, but can also clog the stomach and intestines.

Those who suffer from hypertension should take powder from dried seeds and watermelon peels, half a teaspoon 2 times a day.

If there are problems with the gallbladder, then you need to take 3 tsp. powder.

Oil is made from watermelon seeds, which has found its wide application in cosmetology. It is suitable for all skin types.

With its use, due to the high content of useful acids, the condition of the skin improves.

The skin becomes tender, velvety, soft, acne disappears.

Helps remove accumulated dirt and subcutaneous fat, thereby eliminating acne and blackheads.

Contraindications for use

Despite the fact that the benefits of this product are obvious, there are certain harms.

The negative effect is due to the content of citrulline in the composition. This amino acid breaks down when it enters the body and turns into ammonia.

That is why, such a medicine is contraindicated in the presence of problems with the kidneys and bladder. Not to be taken during pregnancy, breastfeeding and children under 3 years of age.

Since this is a highly nutritious product, it is best to refuse it for people who are obese.

Watermelon seeds are a product unique in its composition that can saturate the body with almost all useful and nutritious substances, and also help get rid of many diseases.

However, it is imperative to adhere to the dosage and take into account the existing contraindications.

Be healthy!

There are very few people who do not like watermelon. But those who are too lazy to spit out the seeds of this fruit are the majority.

These dark brown seeds have to be chosen, because chewing them is an unpleasant pleasure. Many will be surprised, but the question of whether it is possible to swallow watermelon seeds has a positive answer.

Moreover, there is a variety of treatment with watermelon seeds, because they are of great benefit.

Watermelon seeds: calories and composition

Surprisingly, the seeds of the juicy fruit thrown out by people are now sold in pharmacies and supermarkets. You can also buy watermelon seeds in health food stores - they are considered a very useful product.

The calorie content of the seeds is as much as 600 kcal, but given the consumption of small portions of them, it is unlikely to get better.

Watermelon seeds contain fatty acids, including omega-6 acids, ash, proteins and amino acids. Seed oil is similar in properties to almond oil, and vital arginine prevails among amino acids.

The benefits of watermelon seeds for the human body due to this amino acid are manifested in relation to the heart and blood vessels (arginine reduces the rate of development of coronary disease, atherosclerosis). Other valuable amino acids in the product:

1. Lysine
2. tryptophan
3. Glutamic acid

Watermelon - almost all people love to eat it. To whom is it useful, and to whom not at all?

Pumpkin seeds for women - how much can you eat, and should you eat them?

Fragrant, ripe, juicy Melon is not just a delicacy. Read more in the article: http://budu-zdorov.net/produkty-i-zdorovje/poleznye-produkty/polza-i-vred-dyni.html

There is no fiber in the product, but there is semi-fiber (hemicellulose), which contains polysaccharides valuable for health. There are also enough vitamins in the seeds, these are:

• Niacin
• folate
• Pyridoxine
• Riboflavin
• Thiamine
• Pantothenic acid

The bones of watermelon can be "proud" of the high content of magnesium (in a cup of seeds it is more than an adult needs for a day), as well as potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and iron.

Can you eat watermelon seeds?

Whether watermelon seeds are useful is easy to understand by their composition. You can eat them if there are no contraindications (listed below).

In the cuisine of Eastern countries, the product is served fried with various spices; in African countries, soups and sauces are prepared on the basis of crushed watermelon seeds. This product is not afraid of heat treatment, while all the beneficial properties of watermelon seeds are preserved.

dried watermelon seeds

This is the easiest way to make what can be made from watermelon seeds. Such a “dish” is tasty and can replace peanuts or sunflower seeds, pumpkins. For cooking, the seeds are washed, dried on a paper towel. Then cooked in the oven at a temperature of 80 degrees for about half an hour.

Roasted watermelon seeds

This recipe, according to reviews, gives an even more delicious result. The procedure is as follows:

1. Select black (ripe) seeds, remove watermelon pulp from them, rinse.
2. Dry the product on a kitchen towel, you can - in the sun.
3. Prepare a brine of 50 ml of water and a teaspoon of salt.
4. Heat a dry frying pan, throw seeds on it.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, about 6 minutes.
6. Next, pour in the brine, “cook” the seeds until the liquid disappears completely.
7. When ready, the product must be completely dry.
8. Cool the seeds, serve.

Raw seeds are very fond of birds and rodents, so they can be fed to these pets. To feed the bones, you just need to wash and dry on a towel.

Watermelon seeds - benefits and harms

What are the benefits of watermelon seeds for the body? Researchers claim that they improve the entire cardiovascular system, prevent strokes, heart attacks, and lower blood pressure.

The product has a positive effect on glucose, useful for diabetics. Regular consumption of seeds improves immunity, eliminates the deficiency of minerals and B vitamins, and eliminates anemia.

What other medical benefits of watermelon seeds are noted? Watermelon pits have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal effects, heal wounds and ulcers.

The product improves visual acuity, gently calms the nervous system, and neutralizes infections of the respiratory system.

What are the benefits of watermelon seeds for women

The use of watermelon seeds in cosmetology has long been known. They contain B vitamins and fats, which are indispensable for the skin, there is also an anti-inflammatory element zinc, which increases the strength of hair and nails, calcium, phosphorus.

In addition to consuming the product inside, you can use it externally as a mask:

• Finely chop the bones (preferably in a blender)
• Dilute to a pulp with water or dairy products
• Apply to face
• Leave for 20 minutes
• Wash off with warm water

Harm of watermelon seeds

Every part of a watermelon contains citrulline, a special, contradictory amino acid. Due to its presence, watermelon seeds are treated with prostate adenoma, male impotence, it acts as a vasodilator, antioxidant.

When consumed in large quantities, citrulline decomposes with the release of ammonia. This element is harmful to the body, but mainly in the presence of pathologies of the kidneys, bladder.

Watermelon seeds are also contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation, babies under 3 years old, with severe forms of obesity.

The use of watermelon seeds

In medicine, raw watermelon seeds are usually used, preparing various drugs from them.

From worms

100 g of seeds must be crushed with a pusher, rolling pin, or crushed with a blender (but not into powder, but larger).

Pour the product with a liter of hot water, boil the product for 45 minutes in a bath. Let cool, strain. Watermelon seeds from worms in the form of such a decoction drink 200 ml three times / day for 14 days.

Read about the benefits of pumpkin seeds for men here.

Can women eat fried sunflower seeds?

How to take Chia seeds for weight loss:

From high pressure

Grind dry bones into flour, combine with similarly ground dried watermelon peels (1: 1). Eat this powder in half a teaspoon twice a day for a month.

From uterine bleeding

Grind the bones, pour 20 g of powder with a glass of boiling water. Leave for an hour, then drink 100 ml twice a day between meals until the condition improves.

In addition to the above - video: