Health Benefits of Tahini
Tahini is a staple of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine and is made from ground hulled sesame seeds. It’s used as a dip or as an ingredient in such dishes such as baba ganoush, halva and hummus. It is a versatile seed butter that has many health benefits.
Heart Health
In one serving of tahini, you are consuming 16 grams of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The polyunsaturated fats are anti-inflammatory, which help to fight cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, stroke and high cholesterol. Your body needs the healthy mono and polyunsaturated fats.
Strong Bones
Adding just a serving of tahini to your diet can give your bones a boost! Tahini has calcium and phosphorous which are needed to build bone material and to help optimize your bone density. A serving of tahini gives you nearly 5 percent of your daily allowance of calcium.
High in Vitamin B
Tahini has been found to be a good source of thiamine as well as B vitamins. The thiamine found in tahini is used to help metabolize fats and protein. Thiamine also helps to convert carbohydrates into glucose which is then used by the body to produce the energy needed to function.
Antioxidants!
Adding more copper to your diet is a good thing and tahini helps out with a single serving. Copper can help to relieve pain and helps to reduce swelling. Copper has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties which can help treat rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have found that copper can expand asthma patients’ airways. Plus, as an added bonus, tahini contains magnesium.
Immune System Support
Tahini can help your immune system because it contains iron, zinc, selenium and copper. These nutrients help your immune system and are much needed by the body. Iron and copper provide support to the immune system and helps in the production of white blood cells. Zinc has been found to aid in the development of white blood cells and helps them destroy germs. Selenium is known to help enzymes perform their various roles such as producing antibodies and anti-oxidants. Selenium helps the immune system function more efficiently as well.
How long does tahini last?
Tahini has a shelf life of 6-24 months depending on brand and manufacturer.
Is tahini safe for pregnant women?
Some doctors feel hummus and other dips that contain tahini should not be eaten due to the link to both Salmonella and Listeria infection.
Can you make tahini at home?
You can make homemade tahini from any sesame seeds. The seeds can be unhulled or natural, hulled, raw, toasted or sprouted.
