Sesame and its oil are two superfoods because they have great health benefits, as they are full of effective substances that moisturize the skin, enhance its elasticity, and protect it from premature aging.
Elle magazine reported that sesame is a superfood because of its many health benefits.
The health and beauty magazine explained on its website that sesame contains:
- Dietary fiber, which enhances digestion and prolongs the feeling of satiety.
- Plant proteins, which support muscle building and boost metabolism.
- Healthy fats, which keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent food cravings.
- Calcium, which helps strengthen bones.
- Iron, which enhances the body’s supply of oxygen.
- Lignans (secondary plant compounds) can positively affect fat metabolism.
High calories
Despite these great benefits, Elle magazine warned against eating too much sesame due to its high calorie content. 100 grams of sesame contains about 573 calories. !
Regarding the appropriate amount, the magazine recommended adding one or two tablespoons of sesame seeds to the diet daily to benefit from their benefits without consuming excess calories, stressing that this amount is sufficient to benefit from dietary fiber, healthy fats, proteins, and minerals.
For this purpose, sesame salad can be prepared with quinoa and avocado to obtain a light dish rich in dietary fiber and healthy fats.
The dangers of eating too much sesame
In addition to high calories, the risks of excessive sesame consumption also include:
- Digestive system problems: Its high fiber content may cause bloating or diarrhea, especially in people who are allergic to sesame.
- Oxalates: Sesame contains oxalates, large amounts of which may cause complications for those suffering from kidney problems.
It is noteworthy that sesame is one of the most common allergens. Therefore, those who are allergic to it are advised to avoid it completely.
sesame oil
As for sesame oil, it is rich in the following valuable active ingredients:
- Powerful antioxidants such as sesamol and sesamin, which scavenge free radicals and protect the skin from premature aging, also support the regeneration of damaged skin cells.
- Vitamin E, which enhances skin elasticity and fights fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps cell regeneration and strengthens the skin’s natural protective barrier.
- Linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), which moisturizes the skin and prevents dryness. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and soothes irritated and sensitive skin.
- Oleic acid (omega-9 fatty acid), which penetrates deep into the skin and enhances its elasticity. It also supports the absorption of nutrients and improves its texture.
- Zinc, which promotes wound healing and helps repair minor skin damage, is also useful for treating acne and other skin blemishes.
- Lecithin, which strengthens the skin barrier and protects it from losing moisture, and also enhances the softness and cleanliness of the skin.
Many uses
Thanks to these valuable active ingredients, sesame oil has many uses. Where it can be used:
- As a moisturizer: Sesame oil is ideal for intensely nourishing dry skin and protecting it from moisture loss. For this purpose, the oil is applied to moist skin after cleansing to maintain optimal moisture.
- As a basis for homemade facial masks: Sesame oil can be mixed with natural ingredients, such as honey, yogurt or oatmeal, to prepare nourishing masks. For an anti-aging mask, it can be mixed with a drop of rose essential oil.
- As a cleansing oil: Sesame oil is excellent as a gentle cleansing oil to remove makeup and dirt without over-drying the skin. For this purpose, you should put a few drops of oil on a piece of cotton and gently wipe the face.
- As an after-exfoliation care product: After exfoliating the face or body, sesame oil soothes the skin and provides it with valuable nutrients. For this purpose, a thin layer of oil is applied to the skin to maintain its freshness and softness.
- As a facial massage oil: Sesame oil can be used for facial massage. As it helps relax the muscles and gives the skin a fresher appearance. For this purpose, place a few drops on the fingertips and massage the oil onto the skin with gentle circular movements.