Sesame seeds are tiny, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch. In addition to being a delicious and versatile ingredient in many popular dishes, they offer many benefits when added to your daily diet.
Here are the top six reasons why you should incorporate sesame seeds into your eating habits:.
1. Rich in Nutrients
A mere tablespoon of sesame seeds contains a considerable amount of essential nutrients. Among them, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Sesame seeds are also an excellent source of fiber, zinc, vitamin B6, and folate.
By adding sesame seeds to your meals, you can boost your immune system and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
2. Supports Heart Health
Sesame seeds’ healthy fat content makes them ideal for supporting heart function. They contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower harmful cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular function.
Furthermore, they contain a potent compound called lignans, which can reduce blood pressure and inflammation.
3. Aids in Digestion
Aside from their tremendous nutritional value, sesame seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber, making them a valuable aid for digestion.
When consumed in moderate quantities, sesame seeds can help alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and constipation.
4. Promotes Bone Health
Sesame seeds are a rich source of calcium, which is a vital nutrient for maintaining bone health. Additionally, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper also play critical roles in bone health, all of which are present in sesame seeds.
Regular consumption of sesame seeds may reduce the risk of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
5. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Sesame seeds have a low glycemic index, making them an excellent food choice for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes.
Foods with low glycemic indexes result in a slow and steady release of blood sugar, ultimately helping stabilise energy levels throughout the day, reducing sugar cravings and prevent sudden sugar crashes.
6. May Reduce Inflammation
Sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help combat the inflammation caused by oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation can lead to various illnesses such as heart disease, arthritis and cancer.
Consumption of foods like sesame seeds that are rich in antioxidants may improve long-term health and reduce the risk of serious and chronic diseases.
Overall, adding sesame seeds to your diet is an excellent way of maintaining good health. They are low in calories and fat, and their nutritional value makes them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
With their nutty, rich flavour, there are endless ways to incorporate sesame seeds into your meals, whether sprinkled on top of a salad or mixed into a stir-fry.