Sesame seed extract concentrates plant compounds called lignans. Its most dependable benefit is a modest improvement in cholesterol, with smaller, variable effects on blood pressure and, in people with diabetes, blood sugar, plus a boost to vitamin E activity. Broader claims remain unproven. The main safety concern is allergy; otherwise it is well tolerated, low-cost, and low-risk. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| LDL cholesterol | < 100 mg/dL | Primary target of sesame's cholesterol effect |
| Total cholesterol | 150–200 mg/dL | Tracks the overall lipid response |
| HDL cholesterol | > 50 mg/dL (women), > 40 mg/dL (men) | Ensures lipid shifts are not lowering protective cholesterol |
| Triglycerides | < 100 mg/dL | Captures a secondary lipid benefit |
| Fasting glucose | 70–90 mg/dL | Detects metabolic benefit, especially in prediabetes/diabetes |
| HbA1c | < 5.4% | Reflects longer-term blood-sugar effect |
| hs-CRP | < 1.0 mg/L | Gauges any anti-inflammatory effect |
| Blood pressure | < 120/80 mmHg | Tracks the modest blood-pressure benefit |
| ALT | < 25 U/L (women), < 30 U/L (men) | Monitors liver fat/enzyme response in NAFLD |
Cadence: Baseline, again at ~8–12 weeks, then every 6–12 months during continued use