Health Benefits of Spices – Why You Need To Up Your Spice Intake
Many people are looking for a way to improve their health, but rather than focusing on the basics of what they consume every day, a lot of people turn to more expensive solutions that may not have the desired effects that they want.
Indeed, in an average home that has an average spice rack, there are more powerful health foods than you can get in a high-priced health food store, and if you are looking for a simple and affordable way to boost your health, all you need to do is up your spice intake.
Even adding a teaspoon of ginger to a cup of tea each day has been shown to improve digestive health, increase antioxidants, and reduce the risk of certain cancers. So, in this article, you will be guided through some of the health benefits of the most common spices in your kitchen and why it is a good idea to up how many spices you eat each day. Enjoy!
Antioxidants
Spices are, in simple terms, very potent and accessible sources of antioxidants.
Why is that important? Well, for many people, having a diet high in antioxidants is crucial to ensuring that they maintain low oxidative stress, which prevents cell damage and can also help prevent more serious illnesses later on in life, such as cancer and diabetes. Many Ofi spices are high in antioxidants, and if you consume a diet high in compounds like curcumin, cinnamaldehyde, and gingerol, you likely have a diet that is already very high in antioxidants. For reference, curcumin is found in turmeric, cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon, and gingerol in ginger.
Finding a tasty and simple way to integrate spice into your diet will boost your body’s resilience against everyday stressors, which, in turn, will prevent serious and dangerous health issues. So, be sure to grate some nutmeg over your hot chocolate!
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Inflammation in the body is a bit of a double-edged sword.
On the one hand, it is part of the body’s natural immune response to infection and injury. On the other hand, chronic inflammation has been linked to higher levels of cortisol in the body, as well as chronic pain conditions and even chronic mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Several of the spices that you may have in your kitchen cupboard will have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce soreness associated with arthritis or even help to reduce symptoms of depression. One of the most popular anti-inflammatory spices is turmeric, which has such a strong anti-inflammatory property that it can help treat issues like arthritis. Of course, it is worth noting that when it comes to autoimmune-based arthritic or inflammatory conditions, spices like turmeric are useful as a supplement, so if you suspect that you have arthritis, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and begin treatment.
Improved Digestive Health
In 2023, a lot of people (particularly women) experience digestive issues.
These can be linked to an array of complications, such as stress, anxiety, menstruation, pregnancy, and, of course, diet; however, many of the more aromatic spices have long been known for their digestive benefits, from helping to reduce bloating and aiding in overall digestion.
Indeed, ginger and cumin tops the board for the most gut-friendly spices, with many studies finding that these spices, along with coriander, are able to stimulate digestive enzymes and help with faster and more regular digestion. As well as this, these spices aid in nutrient absorption, meaning that your body will experience the full benefits of the foods that you consume. Spices are also able to help regulate the gut flora in your bowel, which have been linked to everything from better moods to clearer skin.
Long-term, the benefits of digestive-friendly spices being in your diet can help prevent colon cancer and issues with constipation and diarrhea. So, get adding that cumin to your curries!
Blood Sugar
It is safe to say that the average person probably consumes a bit more sugar than they should, especially if you are someone who works long hours or snacks a lot.
Luckily, there are certain spices that can play a role in regulating blood sugar. One of the most popular ones is cinnamon, and this has been explored for its usage to improve insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar levels. So, by simply putting some cinnamon into your hot chocolate, you may be able to help yourself or others who have diabetes or who are aiming to keep their blood sugar levels more regulated. Also, cinnamon is a very tasty spice and can be an intriguing alternative to traditional raw sugar in sweet treats.
Long-term, having regulated blood sugar can not only prevent diabetes, but it can also prevent strokes, prevent cancers, and can also help with weight management and dental health too. You really shouldn’t be overlooking how much sugar can impact your teeth! Other spices that have been implicated in maintaining blood sugar include ginger and cardamom.
Metabolism and Weight Management
Another side effect of consuming high levels of sugar is a slower metabolism, which can lead to increases in weight.
Considering that obesity and the associated illnesses are a cause for real concern in 2023, it can be worth looking into how certain spices can help people boost their metabolism and, therefore, help most people lose weight. Spices like cayenne pepper or black pepper contain compounds that can contribute to an increase in metabolism, but please note that this is not a substitute for exercising and eating a healthy diet. Capsicum, which is found in cayenne pepper, has been linked to temporarily boosting a metabolic rate, meaning that you are more likely to lose pounds if you consume cayenne pepper regularly. So, simply sprinkling some into an omelet or onto a baked potato can go a long way towards helping you maintain a trim waist and keep your metabolism up.
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