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Sesame seeds
May help prevent: cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, stroke

These tiny seeds supply healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as fibre, vitamins and minerals. Sesame seeds provide small amounts of phytosterols, plant cholesterol-like compounds that lower lousy ‘LDL’ cholesterol, cutting the risk of heart disease and stroke. Sesame seeds also deliver vitamin E and selenium, two powerful antioxidants with the ability to protect against heart disease and cancer. Rich in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous, sesame seeds support strong bones and help to prevent osteoporosis. Their rich potassium content helps to keep blood pressure levels healthy, while its B vitamins help to keep homocysteine levels healthy. In addition, sesame seeds supply sesamin, a lignan with antioxidant power that appears to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines and reduce the production of cholesterol in the liver.

Action Tip: Toast sesame seeds to intensify their delicate flavour. Add seeds to salads, stir-fries, pasta dishes, fish dishes, dressing and marinades. Enjoy in tahini, hummus, granola, trail mix or topped on cereal. Sesame seeds are delicious paired up with vegetables and leafy greens. For a change of pace, try sesame butter instead of peanut butter on whole grain toast.