Sesame seeds are the one of the most underrated and poorly understood foods. These seeds are small yet pack a powerful punch full of beneficial nutrients. Most notably, sesame seeds are very high in copper, magnesium, and calcium (#1 food source). Just a quarter-cup of sesame seeds supplies 74% of the daily value (DV) for copper, 31.6% of the DV for magnesium, and 35.1% of the DV for calcium. This rich assortment of minerals translates into many health benefits.

Copper is known for its use in reducing some of the pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis. Copper's effectiveness is due to the fact that this trace mineral is important in a number of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant enzyme systems. In addition, copper plays an important role in the activity of lysyl oxidase, an enzyme needed for the cross-linking of collagen and elastin-the ground substances that provide structure, strength and elasticity in blood vessels, bones and joints.

The magnesium inherent in sesame seeds is well known to support vascular and respiratory health. Some of its role include: preventing the airway spasm in asthma, lowering high blood pressure, preventing the trigeminal blood vessel spasm that triggers migraine attacks, and restoring normal sleep patterns in women who are experiencing unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause.

Every knows of calcium’s importance to the body, but here are some more important benefits that can you acquire by consuming sesame seeds – the #1 source of calcium: protecting colon cells from cancer-causing chemicals, helping prevent the bone loss that can occur as a result of menopause or certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, helping prevent migraine headaches in those who suffer from them, reducing PMS symptoms during the luteal phase (the second half) of the menstrual cycle, and providing the necessary components for muscular contraction.

Sesame seeds are so easy to enjoy. Many of the recipes in this book add sesame seeds not only for their slight taste but for their powerful nutritional properties. Tahini (ground sesame), the base for hummus, is a perfect example. I usually throw a few tablespoons of ground sesame seeds into most of my smoothies to give them an extra boost of alkalizing minerals.

If you'd like to learn more about sesame seeds along with tons of other superfoods, check out the Eating for Energy e-book by Yuri Elkaim, BPHE, CK, RHN www.eatingforenergy.ca

© 2007 Yuri Elkaim, BPHE, CK, RHN

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