You NEED these Spices In Your Life…. Here’s Why
By Chi Malixi on May 14, 2014
Many believe that when you are trying to eat healthy your food has to be restrictive, boiled and tasteless. This is probably the biggest myth I get from the majority of my new clients who are trying to revamp their nutrition.
In fact, I encourage the use of spices and herbs to your dishes not only to add loads of flavour without the added fat, sugar or salt but to also give you health benefits from the richness of antioxidant found in these spices.
Although there are still many studies being conducted here are a few major benefits of adding spices to your meals:
- Antioxidant Power- found commonly in fruits and vegetables these are known to protect against heart disease, cancer and other diseases. The major antioxidants include beta-carotene, and Vitamins A, C and E.
- Weight loss- researchers are still studying the potential to promote satiety, boost metabolism and aid in weight management from spices. For example, the capsaicins found in peppers are believed to boost your metabolic properties.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties- although there are still some research to be done on the protective properties from spices and herbs, there are high possibilities of the ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation has been known to be precursors to many chronic diseases, such as allergies, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
Here are my top 7 spices you should start using now:
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CINNAMON- there are natural rich compounds called polyphenols found in cinnamon. Studies have shown that these rice compounds may act as insulin to the body and help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, this spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help relieve muscle and joint pain caused by arthritis. Other great health benefits that cinnamon contains are the ability to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, urinary tract infections, and have been shown to kill the harmful bacteria, E.coli. Just one teaspoon of ground cinnamon has the equivalent level of antioxidants as a ½ cup of blueberries. You can sprinkle cinnamon in your coffee, on oatmeal and organic peanut butter.
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OREGANO- this spice is known to be one of the highest sources of antioxidants. One teaspoon of this flavourful spice is equivalent to as much antioxidant found in three cups of chopped broccoli. Additionally, it is one of the most effective antibiotic and antifungal out there. It can help kill fungal nail infections as well as yeast infection. Try adding this spice to everything you cook from eggs, pasta sauce to even those 3 cups of broccoli.
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ROSEMARY- like many spices rosemary can help reduce inflammation in the body, improve your heart health, and improve blood circulation. Rosemary is also a good source of iron, vitamin B6 and calcium. Try adding rosemary in marinades for meats, pasta sauce and your whole grain breads.
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TURMERIC- although researchers are still studying this colourful spice, they are linking the role of turmeric in brain health and the ability to protect the brain from cognitive decline also known as Alzheimer’s disease. Population studies have been able to show that elderly villagers in India where this spice originates from have the lowest rate of Alzheimer’s disease in the world. Additionally studies have suggested that curcumin (the compound that gives it the yellow colour) has the ability to protect against cancer. Spice up your dish by adding this to your chicken and vegetables.
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THYME- this spice can help you heal from infections faster. Bacterial infections can range from a common sore throat to pneumonia. The use of the extracts from thyme in mouthwashes helps treat inflammations and can be found in cough drops to treat throat infections. To get more of the health benefits of this spice add it in salad dressings, stir fries or sprinkle it on your protein source (i.e fish) or your cooked vegetables.
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GINGER- studies show ginger can help with digestive issues, along with anti-inflammatory properties that can bring relief to joint pain. More importantly ginger is known to be a great help in the safe and effective relief in vomiting and nausea in pregnant woman. The great thing about ginger is that it can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Add it dishes to such as rice or grate some ginger root and put it in your juicer along with apples, beets and lemon juice.
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PAPRIKA- derived from the same plant as the chili family but without the spicy heat. It is high in antioxidants, detoxifying, antibacterial and pain relieving qualities. Those that suffer from arthritis and other aches/pain in the body can benefit from the endless properties of Vitamins A, B, C, E and K as well as calcium, zinc and magnesium.
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