The sesame seed is one of the oldest seeds harvested by man.. In fact, it is considered the oldest oilseed to be cultivated. This is believed to have happened in India, although most feral varieties are African.
Today sesame can be found almost anywhere in the world, and it is a very special seed. Sesame seeds, also known as sesame, have properties and health benefits that make them very special.
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Why should we take sesame? Its 15 properties and benefits
There are different varieties of these oilseeds, such as white sesame and black sesame. Even so, their properties are the same, and these seeds are used in the gastronomy of countries all over the world.
Gomadare (Japanese sesame sauce), tahini (Arab sesame paste) … there are many recipes that would not exist without this particular seed.. In the West, they are consumed more by adding them to salads, in bread loaves, etc. Here we will see what are the main properties and benefits of sesame seeds.
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1. They are an antioxidant food
Many compounds in sesame seeds have antioxidant properties.. An antioxidant food like this prevents the degeneration of tissues, because it fights free radicals that oxidize our body. At the same time, it prevents the onset of many diseases .
2. Improve the immune system
Sesame has components such as selenium and zinc, which improve the immune system.. These minerals are very important for our body to carry out all the metabolic and defense processes it needs, so we have to eat foods that contain them as sesame seeds.
3. They have anti-inflammatory properties
Sesame seeds contain polyunsaturated fatty acids that protect us against inflammation.. Inflammation causes damage to our body that must be prevented and repaired, and eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties is very important to take care of our body.
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4. They improve menopausal symptoms.
Taking sesame is good to fight menopause. This conclusion has been reached after verifying the levels of lignans it contains, and this substance helps to mitigate the symptoms associated with menopause and estrogenic action has been detected.
5. Relieves premenstrual syndrome
Thanks to its antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids, sesame relieves premenstrual syndrome.. The associated symptomatology is represented by inflammation and swelling, breast pain and mood swings. Taking a handful of sesame seeds from time to time can be good for you.
6. They help prevent osteoporosis
Sesame seeds are a rich source of calcium.. There are not so many foods that have these amounts, so it represents one of the best sources of this mineral. A good intake of minerals such as calcium helps prevent osteoporosis.
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7. They have diuretic properties
Sesame seeds help fight fluid retention.. Thanks to its low sodium content and its composition in magnesium, potassium and copper, taking sesame is a good way to avoid that undesirable fluid retention.
8. Strengthen nails and hair
Zinc and copper are two minerals that help to strengthen nails and hair.. We find these minerals in sesame seeds, as well as certain amino acids that help fight hair loss. To have strong nails and hair it is important to take foods like this.
9. They help prevent cardiovascular diseases
Compounds such as lecithin or mucilage fight against cardiovascular diseases.. They regulate cholesterol and other lipid levels in the blood. In addition, the fatty acids belonging to sesame seeds make the blood flow better.
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10. They help fight insomnia
Sesame seeds have tryptophan, a precursor of melatonin.. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is the raw material for making melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone par excellence. People who do not synthesize enough melatonin have sleep problems.
11. Regenerates the skin
The contribution of antioxidants and essential fatty acids prevents skin diseases.. Problems such as psoriasis, eczema or any topical problem related to skin inflammation can see an improvement thanks to sesame. There are oils for topical application that are very comforting.
12. Calms anxiety
Tryptophan, along with B vitamins, helps to combat anxiety.. Nowadays it is difficult not to suffer situations of anxiety or stress, but if we take food like this we will be having a protective factor against this type of affectations.
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13. Combats anemia
Sesame seeds contain considerable concentrations of iron.. A good supply of iron prevents and favors the recovery of anemic processes, since our body needs this mineral to synthesize hemoglobin of the red blood cells.
14. Helps fight diabetes
Sesame seeds contain practically no carbohydrates.. In addition, if we take sesame together with another food rich in carbohydrates, the fiber in these seeds allows the sugars to be absorbed more slowly. Fiber slows the absorption of simple carbohydrates and thus regulates blood glucose.
15. Combats constipation
The fiber present in sesame seeds helps regulate intestinal transit.. A diet poor in fiber can produce constipation, but the insoluble fiber and mucilages present in sesame allow a correct intestinal transit with correct evacuations.
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