Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds

Tap to Read ➤ Sesame seeds have numerous health benefits which can be enjoyed by including them in your daily diet. They possess a plethora of nutrients beneficial for overall health. Dhanya Joy

Sesame seeds are tiny edible seeds obtained from the flowering sesame plant, and are mainly grown to extract oil from them. These nutty, delicate seeds come in a variety of colors, and are known for their abundant health benefits.

They are used in cuisines all over the world, especially in breads and buns. Sesame seeds are especially popular as snacks in Asia, and are used in various Asian dishes and desserts.

These seeds are also known to be the oldest condiments that are in use since 1600 BC. They are available in colors, like, yellow, black, purple, and even blue.

The various nutrients that these seeds contain, offer innumerable health benefits, which makes it even more essential for them to be a part of our diet. Let's know some more about the nutrients in sesame seeds and the health benefits they have to offer.

Nutritional Content

Sesame seeds are a rich source of minerals, like, copper, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, selenium, and sodium. Vitamins like vitamin A, E, and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, betaine, and tocopherol, are found in abundance in these seeds.

Other nutrients include, proteins, carbohydrates, amino acids, and dietary fiber, like, sucrose, fructose, and maltose. It is low in cholesterol and contains high amounts of anti-oxidants as well. Sesame seeds contain unique substances known as sesamin and sesamolin, which are known to be extremely good for overall health and well-being.

Unhulled seeds are known to be more nutritious as compared to the hulled ones. The calorie content of these seeds is a little high, so it should be consumed carefully. With so many nutrients, it's now obvious why its consumption is considered to be so beneficial for human health.

The Health Benefits

Bone Health It is said that a handful of sesame seeds contains more calcium than what a glass of milk contains. The calcium that these seeds contain helps maintain healthy bones and prevent disorders related to weak bones as well as teeth. It is especially beneficial in preventing osteoporosis in middle aged and older women.

Anti-Cancer The sesamin and sesamolin present in these seeds are known to impart anti-cancer properties to them. Their consumption is known to prevent the development and growth of cancerous cells, and aid cancer treatment.

Migraine Relief Magnesium contained in sesame seeds helps prevent trigeminal blood vessels spasms that trigger migraine attacks. Regular consumption of these seeds is also known to completely eliminate the problem of migraine and related symptoms, like headache and dizziness.

Strengthens the Nervous System The vitamin E that is present in sesame helps strengthen the nervous system, and prevents disorders and ailments associated with it. This is one of the most important sesame seeds nutritional benefits.

Skin Care Sesame seeds and the oil obtained from them are very beneficial for skin and hair. The oil is known to have properties that can soothe skin burns and prevent various skin related disorders. The consumption of these seeds can benefit all skin types.

Intestine and Digestive Health Sesame seeds help prevent intestinal worm infection, and also eliminate worms from the intestines. The dietary fiber that they contain helps maintain good digestive health. It also prevents and cures constipation and other related disorders.

Cardiovascular Health The sesamolin and sesamin help lower and even prevent high blood pressure and cholesterol. Thus, they protect against the development of cardiovascular system diseases and disorders.

Asthma Prevention The magnesium present in sesame helps prevent asthma attacks and various other respiratory system disorders by preventing airway spasms.

Menopausal Relief Consuming sesame seeds have known to bring a great amount of relief in menopausal women, as it helps in dealing with the various menopausal symptoms, like hot flushes and insomnia.

Other health benefits of sesame seeds include rheumatoid arthritis relief, regulation of body metabolism, faster wound healing, etc. To enjoy these health benefits, make the seeds an important part of your diet and consume them regularly as a snack or as an ingredient in various dishes.