9 Benefits Of Watermelon Seeds During Pregnancy
Summers are here and it is time for everyone’s favourite – the sweet, juicy and refreshing watermelon. Watermelons are packed with health benefits. Whether it is in the form of cut fruits, fresh juice, or seeds they have multiple advantages for your body. It is for this reason that watermelons are usually recommended to you during pregnancy. In this article, you will find the amazing benefits of watermelon seeds during pregnancy.
True to its name, the water content in watermelon is quite high. So this fulfills the hydration requirements for your baby and you during pregnancy. Watermelon is also rich in vital nutrients like potassium, magnesium, Vitamin A, B6, and C.
Also read: 12 Healthy And Yummy Pregnancy Snacks For Munching
Benefits Of Watermelon Seeds During Pregnancy
There are myriad benefits of watermelon seeds for your baby and you. The seeds are crunchy and eaten completely. Watermelon seeds are low in calories and high in nutritional value. They can also be incorporated in your meals in an array of ways. Read on to find out the benefits of watermelon seeds during pregnancy:
#1. Low in calories
Watermelon seeds are low in calories and are a rich source of healthy fats and proteins. One serving is enough in a day and amounts to a large fist full of watermelon seeds (around 50 to 60 in number). In terms of weight, this is around 5 grams and contributes approximately 20 to 22 calories only to your daily intake.
#2. Packed with essential minerals
Watermelon seeds are a rich source of essential minerals like copper, zinc, selenium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals are not easily found in one food source. Therefore, watermelon seeds become all the more important for you to include in your daily diet. All of these essential minerals are instrumental for healthy fetal growth. They assist in the proper development of the baby during the course of pregnancy. Potassium is also responsible for strong teeth and bone development in the fetus.
#3. Rich source of Vitamins
Watermelon seeds contain Vitamin B and folate. These nutrients contribute to the overall development of the mother and the baby.
Also read: 10 Useful Tips To Prevent Indigestion During Pregnancy
#4. Reduces muscle cramps
During pregnancy, your body is undergoing many changes biologically. There is a flush of hormones and gradual weight gain for almost nine months. This often leads to muscle cramps. Watermelons are effective in offering relief from such cramps.
#5. Rich in Vitamin C
The seeds are rich in Vitamin C. This helps in enhancing the immunity of your baby in the womb. Even for expecting mothers, Vitamin C acts as a natural shield against many infections and allergies.
#6. Miracle Liquid
The benefits of watermelon seeds are not restricted to consumption of whole seeds. Even the oil extracted from these seeds is useful. At some places, watermelon seed oil is extracted through the cold press method, using sun-dried seeds. The oil is light textured and it works wonders for your hair and skin. This oil has good moisturizing properties, so it is also used in baby oils. This seed oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids (EFAs). These fatty acids remove dirt, grease, or sebum from your skin. By doing so, they prevent acne and keep your skin glowing.
#7. Healthy Snack
The benefits of watermelon seeds can be enjoyed throughout your pregnancy. During the third trimester, your baby is growing in size. The nutritional requirements of the growing fetus urge you to frequently munch on something. Watermelon seeds when lightly roasted turn out to be a very tasty snack. It is a cheaper and healthier option compared to other processed snacks like chips and munchies. Even if you eat a fistful of roasted watermelon seeds, you feel happy and satiated without the guilt of piling unhealthy calories.
#8. Reduces Pigmentation
During pregnancy, you sometimes may complain about pigmentation of the skin. Eating watermelon seeds prevents pigmentation and adds to your natural beauty.
#9. Smoothies and Tea
The dried watermelon seeds can also be powdered and used as additions to smoothies and tea. During pregnancy, such fluids act as natural detoxifiers for your already stressed out body.
Also read: The Amazing Benefits Of Drinking Coconut Water During Pregnancy
How To Use Watermelon Seeds
To begin with, you must always wash the seeds thoroughly. Try to rinse them a few times before drying them in the sun. After they are completely dry they can be eaten as it is. They have a nutty texture.
- Watermelon seeds can be roasted lightly in a microwave oven by setting the heat at 325F. It should take only 15 minutes if you spread the seeds evenly on a baking sheet. You must turn the seeds once during these 15 minutes for evenly roasting them on both sides. You can also use a hot plate (tawa) in the absence of an oven. Roasting enhances the taste and makes the seeds very crispy to eat.
- Watermelon seeds can also be dried and powdered. You can use this powder in some beverages.
- Watermelon seeds can be sprinkled over salads to enhance the taste. It also increases the nutritional quotient of the salads.
Also read: Weight Gain During Pregnancy (Trimester By Trimester)
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