Sesame seeds, also known as "til" in some regions, are a highly nutritious seed used in a variety of cuisines and traditional medicines. Here's the nutritional content and other relevant information for natural (unprocessed) sesame seeds:
Nutritional Content per 100 grams of Natural Sesame Seeds:
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Calories: ~573 kcal
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Carbohydrates: ~23 grams
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Dietary Fiber: ~12 grams
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Sugars: ~0.3 grams
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Protein: ~18 grams
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Fats: ~50 grams
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Saturated Fat: ~7 grams
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Monounsaturated Fat: ~19 grams
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Polyunsaturated Fat: ~21 grams
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Vitamins:
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Vitamin A: ~0 IU
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Vitamin C: ~0 mg
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Vitamin E: ~0.3 mg
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Vitamin K: ~0.1 mcg
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Folate (B9): ~97 mcg
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Minerals:
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Calcium: ~975 mg
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Iron: ~14.6 mg
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Magnesium: ~351 mg
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Phosphorus: ~626 mg
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Potassium: ~468 mg
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Zinc: ~7.8 mg
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Manganese: ~2.5 mg
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Copper: ~1.6 mg
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Selenium: ~34 mcg
Bioactive Compounds:
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Sesamin and Sesamol: Lignans that have antioxidant properties and may support liver health and cardiovascular health.
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Phytosterols: Compounds that can help lower cholesterol levels.
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Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids that support various bodily functions.
Health Benefits:
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Bone Health: High in calcium and magnesium, sesame seeds support strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.
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Heart Health: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, they help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Digestive Health: High fiber content aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
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Antioxidant Properties: Compounds like sesamin have antioxidant effects that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
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Hormonal Balance: Lignans may help balance hormones and support reproductive health.
Usage:
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Culinary: Sesame seeds can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, stir-fries, baked goods, and as a topping for bread. They are also used to make tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds.
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Medicinal: In traditional medicine, sesame seeds are used for their nutritional benefits and to support overall health.
Natural sesame seeds are a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of many dishes.