Tuesday, January 13, 2015

SESAME- Best in Phytonutrients

Sesame seeds. One of the oldest spices in the known world. They have been grown in the tropical region of the world since prehistoric times. As early as 1500 BC, the Egyptians were already using them as medicine and were depicted in their tomb paintings being used in baking bread. Ancient Babylonians produce oil from this seed to make cakes and toiletries. The Romans include the seed in their diet for energy and strength. They are thought to have originated in India and was later on introduced throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It reached North America in the late 17th century via Africa. At present day, Myanmar is said to be the leading sesame producer in the world.

Sesame Seeds

Sesame plant is a member of the Pedaliaceae plant family, cultivated since antiquity for its seeds. Its scientific name is sesamum indicum. A hardy annual plant that can thrive in the worst condition and can survive with just the moisture from the atmosphere. It can grow 3 to 6 feet in height and exhibits flowers in lovely white, pink and lilac colors. The fruits are capsule-like, containing numerous pearly white seeds which are tear shaped and flat. This tiny seed is crunchy with as nutty, buttery taste and a sweet aroma. It is prized as an oilseed.
They may be little, but they are a true powerhouse of nutritional value and health benefits. A power seed that is loaded with essential minerals like… Calcium to build up your bone and relieve migraine. Magnesium to lower your blood pressure, fight diabetes and enhances respiratory health. Zinc, which helps your body to repair damaged tissues by producing collagen. Iron to help you maintain a balance diet and improve your immune system and hemoglobin. Manganese to assist your body in maintaining metabolic process and reproductive function.
This superfood is an excellent source of plant based protein to build up your muscle mass and tissues. It has no cholesterol and gluten-free. As compared to peanuts, sesame seed has more fiber, calcium and less saturated fat. Its vitamin E content neutralizes unstable molecules that can damage your cell, and may even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. It has the highest amount of phytosterols among the nuts and seeds, making them effective in lowering down bad cholesterol level in the body. Sesame seed contains sesamol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that can boost your heart health by preventing atherosclerotic lesions. Its essential oil holds a good amount of tryptophan that can effectively reduce your hypertension and ease up stress. It has monounsaturated fat to help lower your blood sugar level. The seed is also rich in dietary fiber to help you regularize your bowel movement and prevent digestive problems.
Avoid sesame seeds or its essential oil if you are allergic to nuts.
Sesame fun fact: 75% of the total sesame seed produced by Mexico goes to McDonald’s hamburger bun production alone.
Eat organic. Stay fit.

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