Sesame seeds have been recognized as a health food is East Asian countries such as India for generations. The sesame oil found within the seeds displays several unique physiological and chemical properties. These unique properties are most likely the result of the abundance of healthy compounds, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and unsaturated fats.
Vitamins
Vitamin E is the main vitamin present in the large quantities in sesame oil. One hundred g of sesame oil can contain up to 40 mg of vitamin E, according to an article published in the September 2007 issue of the "Yale Journal of Biological Medicine." Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that may provide several health benefits.
Minerals
Sesame seeds are also a good source of several minerals that are necessary for a healthy diet, including iron, calcium and zinc, reports Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sports Medicine. Iron is required for numerous metabolic and chemical reactions in the body, while zinc is necessary for a smaller number biochemical reactions. Calcium is required for the formation of healthy bones and teeth.
Lignans
Sesame seeds contain large quantities of chemical compounds known as lignans, in particular sesamin, episesamin and sesamolin. Diets rich in plant lignans have been linked to benefits in cardiovascular heath, explains the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.
References
- "Yale Journal of Biological Medicine"; Effect of Sesame Oil on Diuretics or ß-blockers in the Modulation of Blood Pressure, Anthropometry, Lipid Profile, and Redox Status; D. Sankar et al; September 2007
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sports Medicine: Optimizing Your Diet: Best Foods for Specific Minerals
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Lignans
- U.S. National Institute on Aging: Dietary Supplements
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