This winter, keep infections and indigestion away with sesame seeds

Sesame seeds, also famously known as ‘til’, are loaded with nutrients such as zinc, copper, calcium, vitamins, antioxidants, protein and dietary fibre, which makes it a nutrient-dense superfood that must be included in your diet. Til also has a special place in Ayurveda, because of the benefits it offers to your overall health, including liver, bone and skin. 

Whether you like til ke laddoo or til ke gajak, let’s be honest that winters are incomplete without sesame seeds, and these six benefits will make you its fan and how!

1. Aids digestion

Sesame seeds are rich in fibre, thereby helping to facilitate better digestion and smoother bowel movement, and tackling the issue of constipation. Constipation is a common digestive issue that increases during the winter season. So, if you find yourself constipated, then the fibre and unsaturated fatty acid content of sesame can solve this issue for you.

In a report published in 2015, it was also found that eating sesame seeds can help increase your fibre intake, thereby easing the issue of constipation.

2. A rich source of protein

Sesame seeds are a good source of plant protein. For every 30 grams of sesame seeds, you get about five grams of protein. And as you all know, protein has many benefits, from building muscle mass to balancing out hormones, making protein a much-needed nutrient. Believe it or not, sesame seeds are a blessing for people, especially those who are vegetarian and looking for a plant-based food, that is rich in protein!

3. Keeps winter flu away

With the onset of the winter season, the cases of flu also increase. As we mentioned, sesame is rich in zinc, copper, iron, and other vitamins, it can help you build a stronger immunity to keep infections and viruses at bay, reducing the risks of cold, cough, and fever.

4. Rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are great for your body. After all, they help fight off the oxidative stress and free radicals that damage your cells, and promote better health, skin and hair. And in a study published in the Nutrition Journal, it was also found that regular consumption of sesame seeds can increase the antioxidant levels in your blood.

5. Boosts energy

Whether you blame it on the dropping temperatures or your cosy blanket, winter makes everyone lethargic and low on energy. Thanks to the nutrient-dense nature of these seeds and the high omega-3 fat content, til boosts your energy levels even during the winter season, and keeps you warm!

6. May help control blood sugar

This is the season of celebrations and festivities, but along with that, there is always an overdose of sweets and desserts. Now, this can disrupt your blood sugar levels. While you should check with your doctor first, sesame seeds can help you manage blood sugar levels in an effective manner.

A study published in the journal Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters found that sesame seeds contain a compound called pinoresinol that helps to regulate blood sugar levels by breaking down maltose, which eventually helps to lower blood sugar levels.

So, this winter season, make sesame seeds your BFF!