Sesame seeds are tiny, oil-rich seeds that have been consumed for many centuries by humans. Due to its nutrient content and crunchy texture, it is an excellent addition as a garnish on a few Chinese appetizers, smoothies, salads, burgers, sandwiches and also to make some excellent tahini. While white sesame seeds are great for health, did you know that black sesame seeds may help you manage your blood sugar, reduce cholesterol and much more?
Here are a few benefits of incorporating black sesame seeds into your diet-
May Help Manage Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. To reduce the chances of this, include black sesame seeds in your diet. It is high in magnesium and can lower blood pressure levels. Apart from this, it also has many additional nutrients like Vitamin E and antioxidants that can prevent plaque buildup in arteries and help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Aid in Blood Sugar Control
Low in carbs and high in proteins and healthy fats, sesame seeds can aid in controlling blood sugar levels. It contains a certain compound named pinoresinol that helps in regulating blood sugar. Maltase is responsible for breaking down sugar maltose. It is also produced in our guts after digesting starchy foods. If pinoresinol is inhibited in your digestion of maltose, then it will lower blood sugar.
Good for Bone Health
Sesame seeds, both white and black boost bone health. They have natural compounds that reduce the absorption of minerals like magnesium, calcium, manganese and zinc. You can soak, roast or let it sprout to ensure proper absorption of the minerals.
Reduces Inflammation
Black sesame seeds are great against obesity and may help against cancer, and heart and kidney diseases as well. It is great to eat a mixture of flax seeds, sesame and pumpkin seeds daily for three months to ensure reduced inflammation.
May Soothe Arthritic Knee Pain
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain in the elderly. It affects the knee. It can happen due to oxidative damage, inflammation and much more. Hence, eating black sesame seeds may help soothe this pain as they contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that may protect the cartilage from further damage.
