Sesame seeds were probably one of the first oilseeds known to mankind. Sesame has long been considered in Eastern cuisine as a food that prolongs life.
There are two types of sesame: black sesame and white sesame. In addition to being a seed that brings a crunchy and delicious taste to your meals, sesame also has many health benefits.
Here are some great uses of sesame:
1. Sesame – “food of longevity”
With a mild, attractive flavor, sesame not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also adds many vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to the body.
TSesame seeds contain calcium, iron and magnesium, which are important minerals for the nervous system, contributing to blood circulation and bone health.
Even though it is a longevity food, you should only eat sesame in moderate amounts, only about 1 tablespoon per day. Eating too much sesame can lead to digestive problems or allergies.
White sesame has more iron content than black sesame. However, black sesame has 60% more calcium than white sesame. Black sesame is often used to make medicine.
In addition to being used in food, sesame seeds are also used in traditional medicine. In addition, sesame seed oil pressed from sesame is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, phenol flavonoid antioxidants, vitamins and fiber.
2. Sesame prevents diabetes
Magnesium and other nutrients in sesame have been shown to help prevent diabetes. Using sesame oil has been shown to lower blood pressure and blood sugar in hypersensitive diabetic patients.
Thanks to its abundant protein supply, with up to 20% amino acids, sesame is an ideal ingredient to supplement the diet for vegetarians. You just need to sprinkle sesame seeds into dishes such as salads, mixed noodles or mixed vegetables.
Sesame seeds are beneficial for heart health, good for people with high blood pressure
Sesame oil (pressed from sesame seeds) is effective in preventing atherosclerosis, thus beneficial for heart health.
Sesame contains an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamol, which fights atherosclerosis.
Sesame seeds contain a lot of oleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid) that helps reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the body. Thanks to this, regularly eating sesame can prevent the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.
Magnesium in sesame has the effect of lowering blood pressure, so people with hypertension should eat dishes containing sesame.
4. Sesame seeds treat anemia and improve digestive health
Sesame seeds, especially black sesame seeds, are rich in iron, so they are often used as a remedy to replenish vitality for people with anemia and weakness.
In addition, thanks to being rich in fiber, sesame also helps keep the digestive system and colon healthy. High fiber content contributes to smooth bowel function and reduces constipation.
5. Reduce rheumatoid arthritis, improve bone health
Sesame seeds contain copper, an important mineral for the antioxidant enzyme system, thereby reducing pain and swelling caused by arthritis. In addition, copper is also an important ingredient that improves blood vessels, bones and joints.
Zinc in sesame contributes to increasing bone mineral density, making bones stronger. Besides, sesame seeds are also a rich source of calcium – an important component of bones.
In folk medicine, black sesame oil eaten or applied topically can reduce inflammation in the body and reduce joint pain.
6. Sesame protects the body from the harmful effects of radiation and detoxifies alcohol
Sesamol, an ingredient in sesame and sesame oil, has been shown to protect DNA from the harmful effects of radiation. Sesamol also prevents damage to the intestines and spleen.
In addition, sesame seeds also help the liver detoxify alcohol and other toxic substances.
7. Sesame is anti-aging
Black sesame seeds are said to nourish the brain and slow down the aging process. Regularly eating black sesame can reduce symptoms of back pain, aches, stiffness and joint weakness.
Antioxidants in sesame help the body strengthen immunity, and phylates in sesame are known for their cancer-preventing properties.
8. Eating sesame nourishes the liver and helps keep eyes bright and healthy
According to Oriental medicine, there is a connection between internal organs and eye health.
The liver stores blood and a certain branch of the hepatic duct has a nutritional link with the eye, supporting eye health.
Black sesame seeds are beneficial for the liver because they increase blood circulation in the liver, thereby nourishing the eyes. The medicinal effects of black sesame include assisting in the treatment of blurred vision, eye fatigue and dry eyes.
9. Eating sesame improves respiratory health
Sesame contains magnesium. This type of mineral can reduce the risk of asthma and prevent airway spasms.
Studies have shown that magnesium deficiency can lead to lung diseases. So eat foods rich in magnesium to help your lungs function better.
Article author: Nguyen Thi Thanh Binh on suckhoedoisong.vn
(The author relied on Style Craze to summarize the wonderful uses of sesame seeds)