Tag: Sesame seed

An estimated 0.49% of the U.S. population reported having a sesame allergy, making it a growing public health concern. While a nutritious food source for most people, sesame seeds, and products derived from them can trigger serious side effects for those with sensitivities or existing medical conditions.

For thousands of years, sesame has been a staple crop, making it one of the oldest cultivated oilseeds known to humanity. So, **what type of food is sesame seed**? This tiny, versatile ingredient is classified as a flavorful and nutrient-dense oilseed, prized in global cuisines.

At approximately 120 calories per tablespoon, sesame seed oil is indeed calorie-dense, similar to other cooking oils. However, this fact doesn't diminish its many health benefits when used in moderation, which is the key to incorporating it into a balanced diet.

According to nutritional data, a single tablespoon of butter adds approximately 100 calories to any dish. When combined with the base bagel, the total for a toasted sesame bagel with butter can range from 330 to over 400 calories, depending on the bagel's size and the amount of butter used.

For centuries, traditional medicine has relied on sesame seeds, which are now recognized by modern science for containing bioactive compounds that contribute to anti-inflammatory effects. In fact, research points to specific antioxidant lignans within the seeds, such as sesamin and sesamol, as the primary drivers of this potential health benefit.