In male rats with diabetes, eating sesame oil every day for about two months might help protect a key part of their reproductive system from shrinking.

What we've found so far does not support the idea that sesame oil helps prevent shrinkage of the sperm storage organ in diabetic male rats. Our analysis of the available research shows that out of one claim examined, 12.0 studies refute it, and none support it [1]. We looked at evidence related to sesame oil and reproductive health in male rats with diabetes. The claim that daily sesame oil intake over about two months might protect against shrinkage in a key part of the reproductive system does not align with what the studies show [1]. Instead, the evidence we've reviewed leans against this effect. Every study we analyzed — all 12.0 of them — found no protective benefit from sesame oil on this specific outcome [1]. It’s important to note that our current analysis is based on a limited number of claims — just one — even though it draws from multiple studies. This means our understanding could change as more data becomes available. We are not saying sesame oil has no role in health, only that, based on what we've reviewed so far, it does not appear to prevent shrinkage of the sperm storage organ in diabetic male rats. We also can’t say anything about other oils, different doses, shorter or longer time periods, or effects in healthy rats or humans. Our analysis is narrow and focused only on this specific question. Practical takeaway: If you’re looking at animal studies for insights, don’t assume sesame oil protects against this type of reproductive change in diabetes — the evidence we’ve seen so far says otherwise.