Spicing up a meal greatly enhances its taste and also your health. Every time you reach for your spice rack, do know that you're also getting a boost of antioxidants.
Luckily, these ingredients can be found in your local grocery. There's no need for you to go to someplace exotic. Here are some of them:
Garlic for a healthier heart
Many of us know garlic, which is the good smelling bulb used in the cooking process. However, what you probably don't know is that consuming garlic will protect the heart from changes leading to heart disease.
Researchers have linked the intake of garlic to keep the blood vessels flexible, especially in women. Studies have also indicated that consuming garlic will reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.
Ginger to ease nausea
Research has shown that ginger is helpful in soothing nausea caused by pregnancy and reducing tummy discomfort following surgery. Some studies have also reported that ginger either reduces the severity of motion sickness or entirely eliminates the symptoms. If used along with anti-nausea medications, it can also help with nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Turmeric to reduce inflammation
A substance called curcumin is one of the turmeric components. Evidence indicates that it may decrease inflammation in the brain that has been associated with Alzheimer's disease and depression. In a small study of adults over the age of 50, those who took curcumin supplements over the span of 18 months had memory test scores improved. They claimed to be in better spirits, too. Most striking? Their brain scans revealed substantially fewer markers associated with cognitive loss.
Curcumin also acts for reducing discomfort and swelling in people with arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Yet animal tests indicate that curcumin has good anti-cancer characteristics. Research at Johns Hopkins showed that a combination of curcumin and a chemical treatment medication was more effective than the use of chemotherapy alone for drug-resistant tumors.
Cinnamon to regulate blood glucose
In people with high blood sugar, cinnamon is particularly good. This gives food a sweet taste without adding sugar, and studies show that blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes will decrease.
Cinnamon can also offer cardiovascular benefits, such as reduced cholesterol levels in blood and triglyceride. This is especially important for people who are more likely to develop heart disease with diabetes.
Healthy food is important to sustain long-term healthy habits. Before changing your diet, please consult with your doctor or a dietitian.
