Sesam

The use of shelled sesame in everyday cooking

Sesame has been widely used not only in oriental dishes. Due to its unique taste and above-average nutritional values, we can use it in our kitchen in many different ways:
- when preparing breakfast, it will be perfect as an addition to porridge or homemade whole grain rolls
- it is worth preparing with it is a tasty tahini paste, which perfectly combines with the taste of natural yoghurt and fresh fruit
- shelled sesame is perfect as an aromatic coating for chicken or a crunchy addition to vegetable salads

Interestingly, small sesame seeds in combination with aromatic sesame oil can be used to massage the legs, which will also act as a nourishing peeling.

Like most oil plants, husked sesame is an excellent source of energy for our the body. In 100g of this product we will find about 656 calories. However, it is worth knowing that during the day we should not eat more than about 10-15 g of shelled sesame. Which means that we only supply 65-98 calories to the body. In addition, it should be remembered that shelled sesame is an excellent source of not only valuable vitamins and minerals, but most of all unsaturated fatty acids, protein and fiber. Therefore, it is worth introducing it to the diet in appropriate amounts. Also for those people who especially care about the slim appearance of their figure.

Husked sesame - nutritional values ​​and product characteristics

Sesame is an oilseed annual plant. It is a branched perennial with a stem about 50 centimeters high. Interestingly, this plant is characterized by large green leaves with serrated edges. For generations, the most valuable element of sesame has been its fruit, in which there are seed bags filled with up to eighty tiny sesame seeds. The well-known grains are characterized by a flat, slightly oval shape and are usually about 3 mm in size. They are white immediately after hulling them from the capsule. Nevertheless, they take on a slightly creamy color over time.

Interestingly, sesame is one of the oldest oilseeds cultivated by man. The first references to it can be found in sources that are even 4,000 years old. It is worth knowing that in ancient Babylon, small seeds of sesame were considered the seasoning of the gods themselves. This product was also very popular in Africa, China and India, where even a new variety (Indian sesame) was bred. Although times changed, sesame continued its popularity. Today it is grown on a large scale in India and China. Nevertheless, the countries of South and Central America, as well as Sudan are also considered world producers of this delicacy.

Sesame has been in human life for so long that it has found a permanent place in our culture and even religion. In many cultures, it is considered a symbol of happiness and health. No wonder, after all, it contains a whole lot of vitamins and minerals. Among them, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, zinc and iron deserve special attention. In addition, shelled sesame is able to provide our body with B vitamins (including irreplaceable folic acid). Nevertheless, what is most valuable about sesame seeds are unsaturated fatty acids such as sesamol and phenolic sesaminol. In addition, these small grains contain plant phytosterols necessary for the proper functioning of the circulatory system.

Shelled sesame has a sweet, slightly buttery taste. It is also distinguished by its unusual aroma, which has been used not only in the kitchen, but also in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

The most important health properties of shelled sesame

Due to the rich content of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, introducing shelled sesame into a balanced diet, in combination with systematic physical activity, is able to improve our health and well-being. Sesame is an excellent source of sesamol, a substance that has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and, above all, antiatherosclerotic properties. Therefore, the consumption of appropriate amounts of this product reduces the concentration of harmful cholesterol in the blood, and thus significantly reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disorders, including heart attacks and atherosclerosis. Phytosterols contained in small sesame seeds also play an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Like sesamol,

Interestingly, shelled sesame is a good source of fiber. Therefore, it can have a positive effect on our digestive system by stimulating intestinal peristalsis. Contemporary reports in the field of phytotherapy confirm that the use of sesame oil effectively eliminates the problem persistent constipation. At this point, the zinc and calcium contained in sesame also deserve special attention. These elements have a positive effect on the bone mineralization process. At the same time, they reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in the future. It is worth knowing that copper also has valuable properties. This ingredient, which is contained in sesame seeds, protects our joints against the development of inflammation, and additionally strengthens the blood vessels and protects them from damage.

Both the rich content of B vitamins as well as magnesium and calcium make shelled sesame have a beneficial effect on the human nervous system. It turns out that the vitamin B1 (thiamine) contained in the present grains has a calming effect. It is thanks to her that it becomes possible to mitigate the negative impact of stress on our everyday life. Sesame tryptophan is also important for our well-being. This amino acid is responsible for the production of serotonin - a hormone that directly affects our well-being. Therefore, introducing shelled sesame into a healthy diet, as well as following an active lifestyle, may significantly reduce the risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders in the future. The use of sesame in the cosmetics industry

Sesame has a positive effect not only on our health, but also on the external appearance. The antioxidants contained in it are responsible for slowing down the aging process of the skin. In addition, this product has antibacterial properties, which helps to cleanse the skin. For example, in the course of juvenile acne. Interestingly, the vitamin E contained in sesame is also of great importance for our skin. It is she who is considered the source of youth, and at the same time exhibits beautifying properties (giving the skin a beautiful color and radiant appearance). In the cosmetics industry, sesame seeds are used in the production of oils for skin massage and oils for relaxing baths.

It is worth knowing that this product also has a positive effect on the condition of the hair. All this is due to the fatty acids contained in it, which help to improve the condition of the scalp as well also speed up the hair growth process. Interestingly, skincare products containing sesame in their composition can help to combat the symptoms of dandruff and soothe irritation in the scalp. Additionally, the use of sesame oil in hair care promotes the regeneration of damaged ends. However, it is worth knowing that its use may slightly darken the color of the hair.

Contraindications regarding the consumption of shelled white sesame

Although in most cases the consumption of shelled sesame is safe for our health, there are some contraindications related to its use. First of all, sesame cannot be introduced into their diet by people who are allergic to this product. Additionally, they are forbidden to use cosmetics containing this substance in their composition. Second, you shouldn't introduce sesame (and products containing it) into the diet of the youngest children, without first consulting a pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist. Third, excessive consumption of shelled sesame is not recommended for people who are severely overweight or obese. Due to the fact that sesame seeds can cause allergic reactions, you should introduce them into your diet gradually. If you experience disturbing symptoms after ingestion (eg abdominal pain, rash, runny nose), you should consult an allergist.