You’ve probably encountered them in tahini, halvah, or sprinkled over your favorite dishes, but these little wonders are so much more than a culinary garnish. Sesame seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition, celebrated for their ability to boost your mood and provide a wealth of essential minerals. From enhancing bone density to protecting your heart, sesame seeds are a simple addition to your diet that can deliver profound health benefits.
A Mood-Boosting Elixir 🥛
If you’re feeling a bit down, a simple sesame seed drink could be the pick-me-up you need. By blending sesame seeds with a little nut milk, sweetener, and a touch of cinnamon, you can create a delicious and nourishing beverage. This drink is especially beneficial for those feeling run-down or for geriatrics needing a nutritional boost.
Packed with Minerals and Phytosterols 💪
Sesame seeds are loaded with minerals and a powerful type of plant fiber called phytosterols. These phytosterols are known to help prevent certain cancers and significantly improve your cholesterol profile by lowering your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and boosting your HDL (“good”) cholesterol. This makes them a fantastic food for keeping your heart healthy and preventing heart attacks.
These seeds are also a rich source of zinc, which is crucial for a strong immune system and healthy bones. In fact, they are an excellent source of calcium, making them a great ally in the fight against osteoporosis as we age. Other minerals like magnesium can help prevent migraines and strokes, while copper is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, offering relief for those with arthritis.
Versatile and Skin-Friendly 🌿
Sesame seeds are incredibly versatile. You can sprinkle them on salads, toast them for casseroles, or even blend them into a vegan ice cream. But their benefits aren’t just for your insides. Sesame oil is a fantastic natural remedy for your skin. Applying raw sesame oil to your skin before showering and then rinsing off the excess can leave your skin looking and feeling great.
