Sesame: Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications

The sesame plant is an autumnal plant native to the East. Rich in health benefits, it is grown in Europe, primarily in southern Italy and Greece. Sesame seeds are consumed and used in many culinary preparations, both raw and in the form of oil and paste.

Index of topics

Nutritional values

Every 100 grams of sesame provides 573 calories and also:

4,69 g of water
17,73 g of protein
49,67 g of lipids
23,45 g of carbohydrates
0,30 g of sugars
11,8 g of fiber
975 mg of calcium
629 mg of phosphorus
468 mg of potassium
351 mg of magnesium
14,55 mg of iron
11 mg sodium

Sesame seed oil

Sesame seed oil is excellent quality and contains a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which protect the heart and circulatory system. It is used in cooking as a seasoning and in the preparation of organic soaps and detergents.

Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds are divided into two categories: white, dried, and black, toasted. They're excellent for making bread, in salads, and for adding flavor to any dish, given their almond flavor. They're also widely used in tahini sauce, or sesame paste, used in chickpea hummus. Rich in fiber and minerals are one of the most important sources of calcium in the plant world. They also help in case of constipation.

Use in the kitchen

Sesame, available year-round and a source of fats that can protect the cardiovascular system, can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen, as these recipes demonstrate.

Sesame barsA simple, healthy snack, very useful during diets. Also to curb your appetite. Complete them with honey.
Whole wheat sesame bread.
Sesame bites.
Chickpea hummus with sesame seeds.

Controindicazioni

Sesame is not recommended for people using anti-inflammatory drugs. diabetes or to control blood pressure. It may negatively interact with these medications. Finally, sesame seeds can be a source of allergies.