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Black sesame seeds are increasingly favored as an alternative to white sesame seeds due to their preserved flavor, aroma, and texture. They also serve as a gluten-free option for making flour.
In Asia, black sesame seeds are used in various products like pasta, macaroons, and noodles, adding both a distinct black color and a unique flavor to these foods.
Nutritionally, black sesame seeds are packed with a wide range of essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, calcium, fiber, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and zinc. This makes them a valuable addition to your daily diet.
Curious about the health benefits they offer? Here’s a closer look:
1. Promote Heart Health
Black sesame seeds contain phenolic extracts that help reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Their high fiber content further supports the reduction of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. Additionally, black sesame seeds are rich in magnesium, which plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health by keeping blood vessels healthy and reducing the risk of heart disease.
2. Nourish Your Skin
If you’re looking to improve your skin health, black sesame seeds are an excellent choice. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain skin elasticity, protect against free radicals, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The proteins in black sesame seeds also contribute to collagen production, leading to naturally beautiful skin.
3. Boost Your Energy
Black sesame seeds are a great source of thiamin, which boosts energy production and supports cellular metabolism by converting food into glucose. For a quick energy boost in the morning, consider snacking on black sesame seeds.
4. Improve Brain Function and Mood
These seeds contain tryptophan, an amino acid that aids in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps improve mood and sleep quality. They also provide vitamin B6, folate, manganese, copper, iron, and zinc, all of which are important for supporting brain health and cognitive function.
5. Help Fight Cancer
Black sesame seeds contain cancer-fighting compounds such as phytosterols, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and selenium. These nutrients help combat free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of various cancers.
6. Strengthen Your Bones
Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, manganese, and copper, black sesame seeds support strong bones and teeth. The oil from these seeds is also used to prevent osteoporosis. Regular consumption can help in effectively absorbing essential bone-building nutrients and may prevent fractures.
Note: While black sesame seeds offer numerous health benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Excessive consumption may lead to hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. Additionally, sesame seeds are a common allergen and can cause serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Always consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your diet to avoid these risks.
Black sesame seeds also offer additional benefits, such as improving the health of gray hair.
