Spices not only enhance flavor within our healthy dishes but also bring an array of positive health benefits. Adding herbs and spices to your meals means that you’re increasing your body’s protection against free radical damage.
VALLEY recommends these spices to keep your food tasty and your body happy.
Turmeric
Turmeric can be added to foods or for a more direct approach it can be mixed with water and taken as a shot. According to Healthline.com, Turmeric contains compounds that have medicinal properties, the most important one being curcumin. This is a natural anti-inflammatory compound that has been scientifically proven to aiding in the prevention of heart disease, Alzheimer’s and other various harmful conditions.
The yellow spice also assists in joint and skin inflammation as well as offsetting some of the symptoms of depression. Turmeric is a superfood spice that aids the mind and body.
Ginger
Have you ever wondered why your parents gave you ginger ale when you said you had a stomach ache? The magic within ginger relieves and settles indigestion and nausea by breaking down the panful gas within the stomach.
Ginger functions as a natural probiotic that can be put in spice mixtures, smoothies, teas and an array of recipes that can either hide or accentuate the taste.
Garlic
Garlic is loved by many for its delicious taste; however, it is very nutritious as well. When garlic is crushed, chopped or chewed it releases sulfur compounds that then move through the body. These compounds help can help heal the common cold in addition to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.
You do not even need the raw cloves of garlic to reap its benefits. Organic garlic powder still allows you to obtain all of the heart-healthy properties of fresh cloves, without all of the extra prep work.
Cinnamon
The distinct smell and flavor of cinnamon which makes it a favorite among many is the compound cinnamaldehyde. According to Healthline.com, cinnamon has multiple benefits for those impacted by diabetes such as lowering insulin resistance and blood sugar levels.
Its impacts on the immune system have also been shown to help reduce the effects of viruses such as cancer and HIV although more research is needed to prove this.
Cinnamon is delicious and can be sprinkled on top of tea, coffee or incorporated into your favorite desserts.
Cayenne Pepper
To prep for her role in “Dreamgirls,” Beyonce reportedly dropped 20 pounds by drinking water with cayenne pepper, lemon and maple syrup. While we don’t recommend going on one of these master cleanses, cayenne pepper has been linked to several health benefits involving weight loss and metabolism-boosting due to a compound called capsaicin.
Keri Gans, RD, nutritionist and author of “The Small Change Diet” told “Women’s Health Magazine” that capsaicin slightly raises your body temperature meaning you will burn more calories and this will boost your metabolism. Studies have also shown that supplements of capsaicin can keep you feeling fuller longer.
According to Healthline.com, Cayenne pepper also plays a role in easing bodily pain, whether it be muscle cramping or bone and joint pain. It can also aid in increasing circulation.
Whether we cook these spices into our dinner dishes or hide them in our morning smoothies, incorporating these spices within your day-to-day meals is an inexpensive and easy way to take steps toward a healthier you.
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