Sesame seeds come in two varieties: black and white. From a nutritional science perspective, both black and white sesame seeds are nutritious foods, with black sesame seeds having slightly higher nutritional value. Therefore, most people use black sesame seeds for health and wellness, while white sesame seeds, with their attractive color, are more often used as a garnish in daily meals. How can we eat sesame seeds for better nutrient absorption?
Health Benefits
Black sesame seeds are sweet and neutral in nature, with the function of nourishing the liver and kidneys, and nourishing blood to moisten dryness. In addition to the well-known effect of darkening hair, black sesame seeds also have excellent antioxidant properties. Due to their rich oil and vitamin E content, they can moisturize the skin, nourish the blood, and promote bowel movements, making them an excellent product for maintaining a youthful appearance. They also contain substances that prevent weight gain, such as lecithin, choline, and inosine, so eating sesame seeds will not cause weight gain. When dieting for weight loss, consuming sesame seeds can help improve rough skin. Furthermore, black sesame seeds have the benefit of nourishing the brain and marrow, making them extremely beneficial for those who experience dizziness, blurred vision, and memory loss due to insufficient liver and kidney function.
How to Eat
The sesame products we usually eat are mostly sesame paste and sesame oil. Eating whole sesame seeds is not the best way for nutrient absorption, because sesame seeds have a slightly hard outer shell. Only by crushing them can the nutrients be absorbed. Therefore, it is best to crush sesame seeds before eating.
Storage Tips
Purchased sesame seeds should be stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If the sesame seeds are roasted and then dried, they will be easier to store.