May Lower Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Consuming sesame seeds on a daily basis may help lower excessive cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease, according to some research. 15 percent of sesame seeds' fats are saturated, 41 percent are polyunsaturated, and 39 percent are monounsaturated. According to research, consuming more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat in comparison to saturated fat may help decrease cholesterol and minimize the risk of heart disease.

Additionally, sesame seeds include lignans and phytosterols, two plant chemicals that may potentially decrease cholesterol. 38 participants with high blood lipid levels reduced their "bad" LDL cholesterol by 10% and their triglycerides by 8% when they had 5 tablespoons (40 grams) of hulled sesame seeds every day for two months as opposed to the placebo group.