Seed cycling has emerged as a popular wellness practice, spotlighting seeds like chia and basil for their health perks. Yet, everyday staples in Indian kitchens, such as sesame seeds—known locally as til—often fly under the radar despite their impressive nutritional profile.
A gastroenterologist and hepatologist with more than a decade of experience recently took to Instagram on December 3 to champion sesame seeds as a overlooked powerhouse food. In a post aimed at parents fretting over children’s reluctance to consume milk, the expert emphasized how these tiny seeds can bridge essential nutrient gaps without relying on dairy products.
“Most parents worry when their kids refuse milk, but sesame seeds can quietly fill that gap,” the doctor stated in the caption. “Packed with natural calcium and essential minerals, they support stronger bones without depending on dairy.”
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The specialist advised incorporating the seeds after light roasting or overnight soaking to enhance nutrient uptake. “Add just 1 to 2 teaspoons to daily meals, pair with sunlight or Vitamin D, and you have a simple, reliable habit for long-term bone health,” the post continued.
Delving into their value, the gastroenterologist pointed out that 100 grams of sesame seeds deliver 900 to 1,000 milligrams of calcium—crucial for skeletal strength—alongside magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which aid digestion and metabolic functions.
A caveat: Raw sesame seeds harbor phytates, compounds that can hinder calcium absorption. To counter this, the expert suggested roasting them lightly or soaking overnight, a process that boosts mineral bioavailability. “This is a better option as it naturally improves their mineral absorption,” the doctor explained.
For busy families, the recommendation is straightforward: Sprinkle one to two teaspoons of roasted or ground sesame seeds into meals as a sustainable way to bolster bone health. “So those moms who have this problem with their children that they do not drink milk, they should definitely try sesame seeds,” the post concluded.
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