What Is The Side Effect Of Sesame Seeds?
There is one side effect of sesame seeds – anaphylaxis, which can manifest in various forms.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a reaction that occurs when the immune system releases high levels of certain powerful chemicals. These chemicals induce what is called an anaphylactic shock in medical terms. This shock can drastically lower your blood pressure and even constrict your airways, obstructing the breathing process. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, anaphylaxis can be a serious condition, and individuals need prompt medical intervention (1). Though this is the primary (and most often, the only) side effect of anaphylaxis, it can show up in various ways.
What Are The Symptoms Of Anaphylaxis?
Sesame allergy (or anaphylaxis) can manifest in a number of symptoms. These include:
Difficulty in breathing Coughing Nausea Abdominal pain Vomiting Hives Itchy mouth Flushing in the face
Knowing the symptoms is one thing. And knowing how to prevent them is another. Back To TOC
How To Prevent Sesame Allergy
Avoiding sesame is one great way to prevent the allergy. This means that you need to avoid all foods made with sesame or sesame seed oil. These include the following:
Baked foods like cookies, buns, bagels, and buns. Certain bread products also contain sesame. Snacks like granola bars, candy, and pretzels. Middle Eastern foods like halvah, tahini, and hummus.
Check the food labels. Also, since sesame can even be a hidden food allergen, avoid foods with unclear product labels or no ingredients list.
Any Other Precautions?
Yes, people with gout and Wilson’s disease (a condition that leads to the accumulation of copper) should avoid sesame seeds. Sesame seeds contain oxalates, which might aggravate gout symptoms. The seeds are also rich in copper, which is why anyone suffering from Wilson’s disease must abstain from consuming the seeds. Some research suggests that sesame seeds can lower blood sugar levels. This may not be good news for people on blood sugar medication as the seeds might lower blood sugar way too much. Stay in touch with your doctor if you are taking blood sugar medication. Even pregnant and breastfeeding women must stay away from the seeds as there is not enough information if they are safe during this period.
What happens if we eat sesame seeds daily? It is good to eat sesame seeds daily. Sesame seeds are rich in manganese and calcium, which help strengthen the bones. Calcium also plays a major role in muscle movement and hormone release. However, excess consumption of sesame seeds should be avoided. Do sesame seeds cause gas? Yes, sesame seeds may cause gas and bloating if consumed in excess. They are rich in fiber, which may trigger gastrointestinal discomfort. Hence, their excessive consumption should be avoided. Is sesame seeds good for sperm? Yes, sesame seeds are good for improving sperm motility and count. They also help manage infertility. What is the best way to eat sesame seeds? Sesame seeds can be eaten raw, toasted, or baked. They have a naturally nutty flavor when baked or toasted. Do sesame seeds heat the body? Yes, sesame seeds have the ability to heat up the body, as per Ayurveda. Do sesame seeds increase weight? No, sesame seeds do not increase weight. In fact, they help in weight loss by promoting satiety and curbing hunger.
Reference
- “Anaphylaxis”. American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology.
