Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are tiny, tear-drop shaped and are light cream or black in colour.  The sesame plant is native to Africa, Turkey and Arabia and has been cultivated for thousands of years. This highly nutritious seed is a staple in China and India and is popular in cooking and baking across the globe.

The protein content is very high and it is rich in methionine, an amino acid that promotes the healthy metabolism of fats.  Sesame seeds have an excellent calcium content and contains special fibres called lignans that can lower blood cholesterol. Sesame seeds are also a good source of lecithin and phytosterols that also help to manage proper cholesterol production.

Sesame seeds are high in the trace mineral copper, which helps to support a healthy immune system and can reduce inflammation in the body.  They also have good levels of B vitamins, important for energy production and general well-being.

These tiny seeds boast high levels of magnesium, which is used by the body to reduce muscle tension, promote healthy blood sugar levels and to reduce insomnia.

Sesame seeds are a well known seed commonly used in baking such as breads and biscuits. They are also the single ingredient that makes up ‘tahini’; a nutritious seed paste that is super rich in calcium and much easier to digest than whole sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are also super delicious when toasted as it brings out their delicious nutty flavour, try adding these to salads.