5 Things You Didn’t Know about Watermelon Seeds
BUT, DID YOU KNOW?
We all love watermelon, it’s the ultimate healthy treat for a hot summers day… but what do we know about the seeds? Are they edible? Are they healthy? Here are 5 things that I bet you didn’t know about watermelon seeds.
5 THINGS ABOUT WATERMELON SEEDS
1. You can eat watermelon seeds!
I remember being told when I was a little girl that I shouldn’t swallow watermelon seeds or else a watermelon tree would grow in my stomach. I spat them out every time I ate watermelon because I was afraid of having a tree grow in my tummy – except for one time when I accidentally swallowed one… I didn’t sleep for a week. Most of us only eat the juicy, fleshy part of the watermelon and spit out the seeds but the truth is that watermelon seeds are not only edible but they are also full of nutrients! Why not just eat them too?
2. Watermelon seeds are high in protein.
It may seem surprising but it’s true, watermelon seeds contain a high amount of protein as well as important amino acids. Protein is necessary for building the body as well as for maintaining healthy muscles, organs and other body tissue in the body. Protein is most commonly associated with meat, eggs, fish and dairy, but nuts, seeds and legumes are actually also very high in protein.
3. Watermelon seeds contain healthy fats.
Not all fats are bad, in fact some fats are essential for good health. Watermelon seeds are a good source of healthy fats and omega-6 fatty acids.
4. Watermelon seeds are high in vitamin B.
Watermelon seeds contain Niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, folate, pantothenic acid and vitamin B6 – all of which are B vitamins. B vitamins are important for healthy & clear skin, are good for the digestive system and are essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system.
5. Watermelon seeds make a tasty, healthy snack!
Try roasting watermelon seeds with a little sea salt, these make a nutritious & delicious snack! Just be sure to remain mindful of calories when while munching on this savvy treat. Although seeds are high in nutrients, they can also be high in calories. 1 tablespoon of watermelon seeds is about 38 calories.
THE FINAL QUESTION
Now you know 5 new facts about watermelon seeds!
♥
But the question is – will you keep spitting them out or will you eat them instead?
Liezl Jayne xo
Photos by Liezl Jayne for liezljayne.com
