The Top 5 Health Benefits Of Sesame Seeds

Who would have thought so many healthy benefits could come from such a small seed? Well actually, the benefits of sesame seeds have been known for centuries. Sesame seeds are packed with antioxidants, protein, calcium, and minerals and provide many important health benefits. Include sesame seeds in your daily diet – it only takes 1-3 tablespoons of raw sesame per day.

Here are 5 health benefits you can get from sesame seeds:

1. High in Fiber - Sesame seeds are a good source of fiber. And fiber is essential for supporting digestive health and reducing the risk of heart disease and breast cancer.
2. Lowers LDL Cholesterol - These tiny seeds contain lignans and phytosterols, plant compounds that lower the risk of heart disease. 
3. Healthier Bones - Sesame seeds are high in nutrients that support healthier bones, like calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
4. Reduces Blood Pressure - The magnesium-rich sesame seed may also reduce blood pressure. An extra added bonus, magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar.
5. Decreases Inflammation - Sesame seeds and sesame seed oil are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which helps protect your cartilage. 

Easy Ways to Include Sesame Seeds in Your Diet

One cup of organic raw sesame seeds will provide three cups of sesame milk or a healthy savory plant-based version of Parmesan cheese (Gomashio). Here’s how:

Sesame Milk

Soak 1 cup of raw, organic sesame seeds in water overnight. Rinse the seeds until the water runs clear, then put the seeds in your Vitamix, or other blender. Add three cups of pure water, and blend for 90 seconds. Strain through a cheesecloth, reserving the seed pulp. The sesame milk will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s delicious plain, used in a raw soup, or poured on sprouted wheat or rye cereal.

Gomashio (Faux “Parmesan Cheese”)

Spread sesame seed pulp on a dehydrator tray and dehydrate at 105 for 24 hours. With your fingers, break the dried pulp into course clusters and put in a large mixing bowl. Stir in up to 1 teaspoon of dulse. Sprinkle savory mixture on salads, dehydrated pizzas or raw soups.

Learn these and other healthy tips at Optimum Health Institute. Give yourself the gift of a healing retreat at OHI and jumpstart your holistic healing journey. 

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