Sesamin, found in sesame seeds and oil, has numerous health benefits including anti-inflammatory effects, normalizing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, aiding vitamin E absorption, protecting the liver, contributing to weight loss, and preserving lean muscle mass. It may also aid in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes. Sesamin can be consumed through sesame oil and seeds or as a dietary supplement.
Sesamin is a compound found in sesame seeds and sesame oil. It belongs to a group of fibrous plant compounds known as lignans, along with a closely related lignan called sesamolin. Numerous studies in rats and mice have suggested various health benefits of sesamin. This compound is known to promote anti-inflammatory effects, normalize blood pressure, lower cholesterol, aid vitamin E absorption, protect the liver, and contribute to weight loss. It is also believed to have antioxidant effects.
There are numerous benefits to consuming sesamin while dieting. It has been shown to increase the body’s ability to burn fat while decreasing the body’s fat storage capacity. In addition, it helps preserve lean muscle mass. This is particularly beneficial when dieting, as a restricted diet can break down muscle mass for use as fuel in the body.
Many studies have been done on the effects of sesamin in mice and rats, suggesting that the same effects are likely for humans. Its anti-inflammatory effects have been shown in studies in which animals were fed sesame oil. Other studies have confirmed that sesamin reduces serum and liver cholesterol levels. While the compound is also believed to raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as “good cholesterol,” some studies have suggested that this may only occur when combined with other compounds.
Sesamin’s ability to lower “bad cholesterol,” along with its ability to lower serum triglycerides when combined with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), may also aid in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes. Small amounts of cholesterol and triglycerides, both types of lipids, are actually necessary for the human body to function properly. However, they can contribute to serious health damage when consumed in excess.
While there are some slight contradictions regarding its benefits and advantages, very few side effects or negative effects of sesamin have been observed in scientific studies. One of the only purported downsides is that you may need to consume quite a large amount to get some of its health benefits. Allergic reactions to the compound have also been reported, but are considered rare.
The benefits of sesamin can be reaped by ingesting sesame oil and other products made from sesame seeds. The compound is found in both black sesame seeds and white sesame seeds. It can also be taken in pill form as a dietary supplement.
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