Watermelon Rinds: Its Health Benefits and How to Cook Them

Related Articles

Watermelon comprises of 98% water. Also, it contains a healthy amount of vitamin A, C, magnesium, potassium and other important nutrients.

The most popular part of the watermelon is its pink fruit, but similar to like its cousin, the cucumber, the whole fruit is edible. Yes, this includes the green scraps which are usually thrown away.

The rind, which is the green skin that keeps all that water-logged delicious fruit safe, is completely edible. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider not throwing it out.

Watermelon Rinds: Its Health Benefits and How to Cook Them
watermelon rinds benefits / pixabay

What are the Contents of Watermelon Rinds?

Watermelon rind, just like the flesh of a watermelon, is mostly made of water. The hydrating and diuretic properties of watermelon, combined with its powerful cleansing abilities are beneficial for treating urinary tract infections and for improving the functions of kidneys.

Also, adequate hydration lowers blood pressure as well. Watermelon rind is also loaded with vitamins A, B6, C, a good amount of zinc and potassium from consuming this part of the fruit.

According to the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, the citrulline present in watermelon rind can help fight free radical damage, and even help to boost your immune system. All of these mineral and vitamins can be found in just 1 serving of rind, which totals to 50 calories.

Health Benefits of Watermelon Rinds:

Citrulline can also help in weight loss, and the fiber present

This is the content for Layout P Tag

in the watermelon rind can help you feel fuller for longer. Studies have shown that people who consume natural citrulline lose 30 percent more weight than those who do not.

1. Erectile Dysfunction

Some research have shown that watermelon rind may help men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. Its libido-boosting powers is because of the amino acid citrulline, which is concentrated in the rind.

A study have shown that taking L-citrulline supplements can help in improving erections without many of the potential side effects linked with Viagra.

See also  How Using Avocado Can Keep Your Skin in Top Condition

2. Reduces Prostate Cancer Risk

Watermelon is a great source of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that could potentially help fight off prostate cancer.

Additional research is needed to establish a concrete link between cancer prevention and lypocene, but preliminary studies are promising. Lycopene is also present in the skin of tomatoes, therefore, you can give them a try, as well.

3. Reduce Blood Pressure

Watermelon rind can help to lower your blood pressure. Some research has shown that watermelon extract supplements were able to help obese adults to control their blood pressure.

Also, watermelon is a potential diuretic, which is often prescribed for individuals with high blood pressure. You can try freezing whole watermelon slices for a nice treat on summer days.

How to Cook Watermelon Rinds:

  • Fried watermelon rinds: In making this dish, cut the rind into cubes and dip them into flour or cornmeal. Then fry them in hot oil.
  • Added into Stir-fry: Cut watermelon rind into slivers and added to a delicious stir-fry.
  • Watermelon rind gazpacho: In making the watermelon rind gazpacho, combine watermelon rind, almonds, tomatoes, cucumbers, celery and garlic into a food processor. Then puree them. Seasoned this mixture to taste, and then chill it in the refrigerator.

Warning:

Please note that eating very large amounts of watermelon rind can lead to side effects, which are associated with consuming too much L-citrulline. Too much L-citrulline can interact with some medications.

Remember to inform your doctor when you make major changes into your diet, especially if you are currently taking medications for a chronic condition or if you are pregnant.

Related Articles:
1. Health Benefits of Eating Watermelon
2. Replenish Your Body With This Ultra Hydrating Watermelon and Basil Smoothie
3. Is Watermelon the New Natural Remedy for Sore Muscles

More on this topic

Comments

Popular stories