Seeds are an excellent way to boost the nutrition of your favorite meals, and poppy seeds and sesame seeds are both fantastic seed options. If you're wondering which type of seed will benefit you most, continue reading. In this article, we'll discuss the differences between poppy seeds vs. sesame seeds so that you can better decide which is best for you.
What Are Sesame Seeds?
Sesame seeds are tiny, oil rich seeds that derive from the pods of the sesame plant—Sesamum indicum. Sesame seeds come in several varieties, two of the most common being hulled and unhulled. Unhulled sesame seeds have an outer, edible husk that gives them a golden brown hue. Hulled sesame seeds come without the husk and have an off white color that turns brown when roasted.
Curious to learn how you can roast sesame seeds at home? Check out the article: Toasted vs. Roasted Sesame Seeds.
Benefits of Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds have several benefits, and consuming them regularly can improve everything from digestion to athletic performance. Here are a few reasons we love to enjoy sesame seeds.
Fiber
Sesame seeds are a good source of fiber, a nutrient that is fantastic for digestive health. Consuming adequate amounts of fiber helps your body slow digestion and adds bulk to stools—ultimately preventing unwanted digestive symptoms like diarrhea and constipation. Fiber also acts as a food source for the good bacteria in your gut and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Protein
Sesame seeds are a beneficial source of plant-based protein. However, because they do not contain all nine essential amino acids, they are not considered a complete protein source. Still, when mixed with other protein-rich ingredients, these seeds are an excellent way for vegetarians and vegans to boost their protein intake naturally.
Antioxidants
Sesame seeds are full of antioxidants and may help increase your blood's overall amount of antioxidant activity. In addition, these seeds also contain lignans, a nutrient that functions as antioxidants and helps fight oxidative stress.
How to Use Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are incredibly versatile and can be used to create sweet and savory recipes. Here are a few ways that we like to enjoy sesame seeds.
- White Sesame Seed Tahini
- Sesame Seed Cookies
- Black Sesame Morning Glory Muffins
- Sesame Shrimp Millet and Quinoa Grain Bowl
What Are Poppy Seeds?
Poppy seeds are a small oilseed harvested from the opium poppy—Papaver somniferum. Much smaller than most other seeds, poppy seeds are kidney-shaped and gathered from dried seed pods. They have been around for thousands of years and are enjoyed worldwide, especially in Central Europe and South Asia. While poppy seeds are typically used whole, they can be ground into a meal and used as an ingredient in several recipes like pastries and bread. Like sesame seeds, poppy seeds can also be pressed for their oil to make poppy seed oil.
Benefits of Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are overflowing with health benefits. Here are a few of the most recognized benefits of poppy seeds.
Protein
One serving of poppy seeds contains a remarkable amount of protein. And while poppy seeds are not considered a complete protein source, they are typically combined with foods that complete their essential amino acid profile. Protein is an integral part of a healthy diet, and getting enough of it can help boost several bodily processes like immune response, hormone products and blood clotting.
Calcium
Calcium is required by the body to maintain strong bones and teeth, and poppy seeds are full of it. A serving of poppy seeds will provide you with a beneficial amount of calcium, helping you reach your daily nutrient goals. Enjoying poppy seeds regularly may also help boost overall brain function.
Fiber
Like sesame seeds, poppy seeds are also great for digestion as they supply the body with healthy amounts of fiber. Getting enough fiber daily is essential as it can help balance blood pressure, help food and waste move through your system, and may even benefit cholesterol levels. Fiber also helps you remain fuller for longer, eliminating the urge to reach for unhealthy and sugary snacks between meals.
How to Use Poppy Seeds
The delicate flavor and small size of poppy seeds make it easy to add them into all kinds of dishes. Here are a few tasty ways to incorporate poppy seeds into your menu.
Now that you know more about the benefits of poppy seeds and sesame seeds, it's time to begin cooking with them. Choose from one of the recipes above, or create your own. We can't wait to see what you come up with. From the Bob's Red Mill family to yours, have a healthy and flavorful day!
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