You have some tahini in your frig? If not, it’s a good idea to get some in.

The thick, oily paste made from ground sesame seeds is a cheap (and tasty) beauty supplement. Why spend money on creams and oils for your skin without getting some anti-ageing ingredients through your diet?

Tahini is an important source of vitamin E (about 40 mg per 100 g), well known for its protective effect on the heart and blood vessels, its antioxidant and anti-ageing effects.

The Indian medical system, Ayurveda, which has been around for 5000 years and offers a rich, comprehensive outlook to a healthy life, recommends eating a handful of sesame seeds daily to guarantee healthy strong bones. Sesame seeds certainly contain calcium and vitamin D, both necessary for maintaining bone strength and the Ayurvedic approach may well help your bones, but you don’t need ancient medical advice to see the benefits.

Sesame seeds

• contain a group of antioxidants called lignans, known to reduce cholesterol and improve heart health
• contain high levels of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, all necessary for the healthy functioning of the nervous system and muscles
• provide good quantities of B group vitamins, especially vitamin B3
• are a good source of the amino acid Methionine, which is essential for liver detoxification and enhances the absorption of other amino acids

It’s a little hard to swallow a handful of sesame seeds so the tahini paste is the way to go.

Tahini is easily digested and within half an hour of eating will provide you with a well-balanced supply of energy. It does have a high fat content, but nearly 90% of the fat is unsaturated, and good for you. 45% of the tahini paste is protein and minerals.

It has a strong, nutty flavour and can be used as a dip with carrots or celery, mixed with other dips, or mashed with chick peas, lemon juice and garlic to make hummus. Open up a pita pocket, spread tahini inside and add your favorite sandwich fillings. It’s a much healthier option than sour cream-based dips.

When you first open jar of tahini, give it a good stir. The oil separates slightly from the paste so just mix it back in with a knife.

Any good recipes ?

Tags: , heart, sesame seeds, tahini