Noting that tahini is rich in minerals such as zinc, Prof. Muhsin Konuk stated, “Zinc plays a significant role in collagen production. Collagen is a key protein that provides elasticity and firmness to the skin, helping it appear stronger and smoother.” Prof. Konuk also mentioned that consuming tahini on an empty stomach can boost metabolism, adding, “Consuming a few tablespoons (15–20 grams) of tahini daily can be quite beneficial for health. It can provide energy and help regulate blood sugar levels. Combined with lemon, a rich source of vitamin C, tahini increases the number of blood-building elements in the body, helping you feel more energetic throughout the day.”
Prof. Muhsin Konuk, Advisor to the Rector of Üsküdar University and Head of the Molecular Biology Master’s Program, explained that tahini, derived from sesame seeds, naturally supports collagen production, which is the skin’s most essential structural component, thanks to its rich vitamin and mineral content.
Tahini plays a supportive role in skin health
Although tahini does not contain collagen directly, it includes components essential for collagen synthesis. Prof. Konuk explained, “Tahini is a food product derived from sesame seeds. Thanks to its vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants, it can offer numerous benefits for skin health. These include amino acids, vitamin E, B vitamins (especially B1 and B6), minerals (zinc, copper, iron, calcium, magnesium), and fatty acids. These nutrients help regenerate skin cells and maintain overall skin health. The antioxidants in tahini that is known as lignans (such as sesamin and sesamol), help prevent skin damage caused by free radicals. This can delay signs of premature aging (such as fine lines and wrinkles) and help the skin remain youthful and refreshed.”
Prof. Konuk further noted that the healthy fatty acids in tahini (linoleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid) and vitamin E help maintain the skin's moisture balance: “It prevents dryness and strengthens the skin barrier. This contributes to softer, smoother, and more elastic skin.”
Zinc in tahini plays a key role in collagen production
Reiterating that tahini is rich in minerals like zinc, Prof. Konuk said, “Zinc plays a critical role in collagen production. Collagen is a foundational protein that ensures skin’s elasticity and firmness, helping it appear stronger and smoother. In addition, sesame seeds contain compounds that aid in detoxifying the body, which can indirectly enhance skin health and vibrancy. Thanks to its antioxidants and vitamins, tahini may help reduce the appearance of blemishes and even out skin tone.”
What is the ideal consumption amount?
Prof. Konuk also addressed the ideal amount of tahini consumption to support collagen production: “Consuming a few tablespoons (15–20 grams) of tahini per day is highly beneficial for health. It can be included in breakfast or consumed as a healthy, energizing snack throughout the day. It can also be used as a dressing in salads and appetizers. As widely known, tahini is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.”
Boosts immunity when consumed with lemon
Prof. Konuk also highlighted that eating tahini on an empty stomach may speed up metabolism, adding: “It can provide energy and help balance blood sugar. Additionally, thanks to its healthy fats and proteins, it can help you stay full for longer. Consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, tahini supplies your body with essential nutrients it needs throughout the day. While tahini can be eaten on its own, it can also be used in many recipes, for example, as an ingredient in salad dressings or in dishes like hummus. It can also be mixed with molasses and eaten for breakfast or to satisfy a sweet craving. When combined with lemon, a rich source of vitamin C, tahini increases the number of blood-building components in the body, making you feel more energetic during the day. It boosts immunity and may minimize the risk of various illnesses. This effective combination also helps compensate for daily vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.”
Tahini or collagen supplements?
Commenting on the difference between consuming tahini and taking collagen supplements, Prof. Konuk stated: “Collagen is the most abundant protein in the extracellular matrix of the skin, which forms the bulk of the skin’s structure and is largely responsible for the smooth, youthful appearance we have at a young age. Since collagen is a protein, it behaves like other proteins in the body, and it is continuously broken down and replenished. Studies have shown that collagen supplementation can improve skin quality and appearance by increasing the body's collagen production. Just like tahini, collagen supplements are recommended to be taken with vitamins C and E to enhance their effectiveness.
If collagen supplements are used for skin health, they should be supported with vitamins to boost their effectiveness. On the other hand, tahini not only naturally provides the necessary support for collagen production but also offers multifunctional benefits such as regenerating skin cells, providing antioxidant protection, moisturizing, tightening, and evening out skin tone. Considering this holistic approach, the choice should be based on individual needs.”
Sesame oil as a natural moisturizer
Prof. Konuk emphasized that while tahini usually provides its benefits through consumption, “Sesame oil can also be applied directly to the skin for its moisturizing and restorative effects. Sesame oil may be used as a natural moisturizer and sun protector; however, it’s important to consult a specialist before sun exposure. Additionally, if you have any allergies or specific skin conditions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before applying tahini or sesame products to your skin,” he concluded.
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)