What Is Sesamin? A Guide to the Sesame-Derived Antioxidant
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When people think about healthy ageing and daily wellness, antioxidants are often one of the key topics that come to mind. Found naturally in many plants and foods, antioxidants have been widely researched for their role in supporting the body’s natural defence systems.
One naturally derived compound that has gained attention in wellness research is sesamin. Found in sesame seeds, sesamin is a type of lignan, a plant compound that has been studied for its unique properties. Through decades of research into natural ingredients, Suntory has explored the potential of sesamin and developed Suntory Sesamin EX, a supplement designed to support everyday wellness.
What Is Sesamin?
Sesamin is a naturally occurring lignan found mainly in sesame seeds. Lignans are plant-derived compounds that are part of a group of substances naturally present in certain foods.
Sesame seeds have been valued for centuries as a nutritious ingredient, and modern research has continued to explore their naturally occurring compounds. Unlike some nutrients that are commonly discussed, sesamin is considered a relatively unique compound because it is found in particularly high amounts in sesame seeds.
Research into sesamin has focused on understanding its properties and how it may complement a healthy lifestyle. Sesamin makes up less than 1% of a sesame seed, which is why it's considered a rare compound relative to how much a typical diet would provide from sesame seeds alone. This is a key reason many people look to sesame seed antioxidant supplements as a more consistent way to include it in their routine.
What Is Sesamin Good For?
Sesamin is a naturally occurring lignan found in sesame seeds. It has been studied for its role in supporting the body's antioxidant defences, and is often included in daily wellness routines alongside good sleep, balanced nutrition, and stress management. This is reflected in a Suntory survey of 2,919 men and women in their 50s to 80s who had used Sesamin EX for over a year, where 96.9% reported feeling "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the product.*
*Source: Percentage of 2,919 men and women in their 50s and 80s who have been using Sesamin EX for over a year and answered, "very satisfied" or "satisfied" (Suntory internal survey as of January 2017)
Why Is Sesamin Studied in Wellness Research?
The body naturally produces oxidative processes as part of normal biological functions. At the same time, factors such as ageing, lifestyle habits, environmental factors, and daily stress can influence the body’s overall balance.
This has led researchers to explore naturally occurring compounds, including plant-based compounds like sesamin, for their potential role in supporting daily wellness.
A balanced lifestyle that includes nutritious food, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management remains essential. Ingredients such as sesamin can complement these healthy habits as part of a broader wellness approach.
How Sesamin Differs from Other Antioxidants
Not all antioxidants come from the same source or work in the same way. While antioxidants can be found in a wide range of foods, from berries to green tea, sesamin is distinct because of how concentrated and rare it is within its source. This is part of why Suntory has invested decades of research* into developing an extraction method specifically for sesamin, rather than relying on sesame seeds or sesame oil consumption alone.
The Suntory Heritage Behind Sesamin EX
Suntory continues the company’s commitment to supporting consumers’ total wellness. With a philosophy centred around helping people enjoy healthier lives in an era of 100-year lifespans, Suntory focuses on developing products based on research, innovation, and the power of nature.
The heritage of Suntory reflects decades of expertise in creating trusted products across different categories, from beverages to wellness solutions. Through Suntory Wellness, this commitment continues with products such as Suntory Sesamin EX, developed to support consumers in their everyday wellness journey.
Choosing a Research-Based Wellness Supplement
With many supplements available today, consumers may find it challenging to decide which products best suit their needs.
When considering a wellness supplement, it can be helpful to look at:
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The research behind the ingredients
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The brand’s expertise and history
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The quality of the formulation
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How the product fits into your lifestyle
A supplement should complement healthy habits rather than replace them. For those interested in sesame-derived wellness compounds, Suntory Sesamin EX offers a science-backed option developed through years of research into sesamin.
Conclusion
Sesamin is a unique sesame-derived compound that has attracted interest through years of scientific research. As part of a balanced lifestyle, naturally derived ingredients such as sesamin can complement daily wellness habits.
With decades of research behind it, Suntory Sesamin EX combines sesame-derived sesamin with vitamin E to support everyday wellness. Small daily habits can make a meaningful difference over time. Add a science-backed supplement developed with Suntory’s expertise to complement your approach to healthy ageing.
Explore Suntory Sesamin EX and take a simple step towards supporting your everyday wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the body need antioxidants?
The body naturally produces oxidative processes as part of everyday biological functions, such as energy production and metabolism. However, factors like ageing, stress, environmental exposure, and lifestyle habits can influence the body's overall oxidative balance over time. Antioxidants are compounds that are studied for their role in supporting the body's natural defence systems against this oxidative activity. Many start including antioxidant-rich foods or supplements, such as those containing sesamin, as part of a broader daily wellness routine
What is sesamin used for?
Sesamin is a naturally occurring compound studied for its role in supporting the body's antioxidant, increasing energy, and preventing aging. It's commonly included in daily wellness supplements, such as Suntory Sesamin EX, as part of a broader routine that also includes balanced nutrition, liver support, sleep, and activity.
Is sesamin the same as sesame oil?
No. While both come from sesame seeds, sesame oil is the extracted fat from the seed, whereas sesamin is a specific lignan compound found within the seed in very small amounts. Obtaining a meaningful, consistent amount of sesamin typically requires a more targeted extraction process, which is why supplements like Sesamin EX exist.
How much sesamin is in sesame seeds?
Sesamin makes up less than 1% of each sesame seed, making it one of the more concentrated yet naturally scarce plant lignans. This is why eating sesame seeds directly is generally not considered a good way to obtain meaningful amounts.
Is Suntory Sesamin EX backed by research?
Sesamin EX has been developed through decades of Japanese research into natural compounds, including sesamin extraction. Suntory received an Achievement in Technological Research award from the Japan Society for Bioscience, Biotechnology and Agrochemistry (JSBBA) for Sesamin's practical application as a health food in 44 papers and 98 academic conference presentations.
How long does it take to notice a difference with Sesamin EX?
Loved by over 2 million fans, with results typically seen within 8 weeks with daily, consistent use (Takemoto 2015, 1-10). As with any supplement, individual experiences can vary, and Sesamin EX works best as part of a broader wellness routine.
