Nut / Seed
Sesame Seeds
6/10 Moderate evidence
Small seeds rich in sesame-specific lignans (sesamin, sesamolin) and the antioxidant tocopherol with cardiovascular and joint benefits.
Active compounds
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Sesamin
Lignan that reduces oxidized LDL and inhibits inflammatory cytokine release
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Sesame lignans (broadly)
Enhance vitamin E activity and provide additional antioxidant capacity
Helps with
Practical tips
- Preparation
- Toast briefly to enhance flavor, or use as tahini paste
- Recommended amount
- 1-2 tablespoons daily, or 1-2 tablespoons tahini
- Absorption
- Grinding (as in tahini) or thorough chewing dramatically improves nutrient extraction from the hard hull
- Cautions
- Sesame is one of the major food allergens; check labels