Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It is widely used in Middle Eastern cuisine and has recently become popular in the Western world as well.
Tahini is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that make it a superfood. In this article, we will explore why tahini is a great food to add to your everyday diet.
1. Rich in Nutrients:
Tahini is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that are important for our health. One tablespoon of tahini contains:.
- Calcium: 6% of the recommended daily intake.
- Iron: 6% of the recommended daily intake.
- Protein: 3 grams, which is more than any other nut or seed butter.
- Vitamin B1: 5% of the recommended daily intake.
- Phosphorus: 10% of the recommended daily intake.
These nutrients are important for our overall health, and adding tahini to our diet can help us meet our daily requirements.
2. Good Source of Healthy Fats:
Tahini is a good source of healthy fats, mostly in the form of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are essential for our body and are beneficial for heart health.
The fat in tahini is also known to help with absorption of other important nutrients such as fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
3. Helps with Digestion:
The high fiber content in tahini makes it a great food for promoting digestive health. It helps maintain regular bowel movements and prevents constipation.
The fiber in tahini also helps with weight management, as it keeps us feeling full for longer periods of time.
4. Boosts Energy Levels:
Tahini is a great source of energy because of its high protein and healthy fat content. It also contains carbohydrates which provide us with energy. Having tahini as a part of your breakfast can help you stay energized throughout the day.
5. Lowers Cholesterol:
The healthy fats in tahini are known to lower cholesterol levels in the body. They prevent the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the arteries, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
6. Antioxidant Properties:
Tahini contains a variety of antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules produced during metabolism that can cause damage to cells and lead to disease.
The antioxidants in tahini include lignans, which are known to have anticancer properties.
7. Versatile Ingredient:
Tahini is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a salad dressing, a dip, a spread, or as an ingredient in sauces and marinades.
Tahini is also commonly used in Middle Eastern dishes such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel.
8. Gluten-Free:
Tahini is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
9. Easy to Incorporate into Everyday Diet:
Tahini is very easy to incorporate into your everyday diet. You can simply add a tablespoon of tahini to your smoothie, or use it as a spread on your toast. You can also use it to make a healthy substitute for mayonnaise or sour cream in recipes.
Just be sure to buy a high-quality tahini that is free from additives and preservatives.
10. Conclusion:
Tahini is a delicious and nutritious food that is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Adding tahini to your everyday diet can help improve your overall health and prevent a variety of diseases.
So the next time you are looking for a healthy and tasty ingredient to add to your dish, give tahini a try!.