Watermelon, one of the most delicious and hydrating summer fruits, should be a staple in your diet. But how can you tell when it's perfectly ripe, offering juicy and sweet flesh? Here are a few easy steps to follow.
To determine its ripeness, place the watermelon close to your ear and give it a gentle squeeze. If you hear a crunch-like sound, it's likely ripe. Since watermelons contain a large amount of water, they should feel fairly heavy. Additionally, knock on it with your knuckles. If you hear a dull thud, it's ready to eat. Check the skin for uniformity, without any alterations or cracks. A lighter patch is not an indication of immaturity, it's simply a sign that the fruit was in contact with the ground during its growth.
Overripe watermelons are identifiable by their floury, yellowish flesh that gives off a hollow sound when tapped and should be avoided.
Interesting Facts About Watermelon: Have You Discovered the Benefits of Its Seeds?
A ripe, juicy watermelon is typically visualized as a red fruit containing soft, refreshing flesh. Most people discard the seeds before indulging, but that's unfortunate! Not everyone is aware of the seeds' health benefits.
Watermelon is an amazing fruit with a high water content (92 percent), loaded with minerals and vitamins. The seeds are packed with valuable micronutrients such as zinc, potassium, and magnesium. Plus, they're low in calories, with just 23 calories in about 4 grams.
In essence, watermelon seeds contribute significantly to heart health and aid in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Watermelon Seeds' Nutritional Profile
- Low in calories
- Magnesium: Vital for metabolic processes
- Zinc: Enhances immune defenses, aids cell growth, supports digestion, and maintains a healthy nervous system
- Iron: The National Institute of Health recommends 18 mg per day
- Healthy Fats: They contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, dubbed the "good" fats. These fats can lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
How to include watermelon seeds in our diet?
Watermelon seeds, often overlooked, are a treasure trove of nutrients. They can be consumed in their raw form, sprouted, or roasted. A simple way to roast them is to set the oven at 200°, place the seeds on a baking sheet, drizzle some oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and bake for about 15 minutes. Ensure to turn them once to achieve an even crispness.s the warm season sets in, make the most of these seeds to stock up on beneficial nutrients. Regardless of your preferred way to consume them, they are always a healthy and tasty option. Packed with protein, essential fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium, these seeds offer numerous benefits to our body, some of which are outlined below:
- Skin Health Enhancement: The oil from watermelon seeds is a common ingredient in various beauty products. It fights premature aging, treats acne, eczema, and dry, dull skin, promoting a healthier and brighter complexion.
- Hair Strengthening: Enriched with protein, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper, watermelon seeds can improve hair quality. They strengthen the hair, stimulate growth, prevent damage from harsh treatments like dyes, and combat hair loss.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: The magnesium in watermelon seeds helps regulate carbohydrate metabolism, which can increase blood sugar levels. Thus, they are beneficial in managing type 2 diabetes.
- Immune System Boost: Watermelon seeds are rich in iron, minerals, and vitamin B, all of which strengthen the immune function.
- Prevention of Osteoporosis: Regular consumption of watermelon seeds can help prevent weak bones, thereby fighting osteoporosis.
- Nervous System Support: Being a rich source of vitamin B, these seeds aid in maintaining a healthy nervous system and brain, prevent early dementia, and regulate mood disorders.
- Enhancement of Male Fertility: The fruit and seeds are rich in zinc, vital for improving sperm quality and combating male infertility.
The magical properties of these nutritious and tasty seeds are often unknown. Make a habit of buying watermelon frequently and, after savoring its pulp, save the seeds. Enjoy these as a snack whenever you wish – they will keep you healthier for longer!
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