Spice up Your Life
Spices do way more than make your food taste amazing - they can actually give your health a boost, too. Many of the everyday seasonings sitting around in your kitchen cabinet are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are great for your health. Let’s find out which ones you should be putting on your food more often!
Cinnamon
Ah, one of the world’s most popular spices. Cinnamon isn’t just for toast or apple pie - it’s a powerful spice that some think may help balance blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It’s loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties too. Try some sprinkled in your coffee and see what you think.
Turmeric
This golden spice, which hails from India, has earned its place in the spotlight for a reason. Turmeric is packed with curcumin, a compound known for fighting inflammation and supporting joint health. It’s also linked to improved brain function and heart health. Why not make yourself a nice healthy curry using turmeric as an ingredient?
Ginger
Ginger is famous for calming upset stomachs – maybe your granny used to swear by it? - but it’s also thought to be a powerful anti-inflammatory and immune system booster. Experts believe it helps with digestion, reduces nausea, and even supports good circulation. And it tastes lovely in your tea, as well.
Garlic Powder
Garlic can of course be used for warding off vampires and impressing Italians, but it’s good for your heart as well. Garlic powder contains compounds that can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and strengthen the immune system. Plus, it’s so easy to add to lots of different healthy meals.
Black Pepper
Black pepper may seem pretty basic, but it’s a spice worth getting to know. Piperine, the active compound, improves digestion and helps your body absorb nutrients. It’s also thought that it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Try having some on your eggs every once in a while!
Cloves
Cloves bring a warm, slightly sweet flavor to things, but their health benefits are even sweeter. They’re packed with antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and according to some even help ease toothaches. They’ve been used in traditional medicine for centuries, so they’ve more than earned their place on this list.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg has calming properties that can help with sleep and digestion. It’s also rich in antioxidants and has been linked to improved brain health. A tiny sprinkle goes a long way – just don’t ingest a lot of it if you’re pregnant, it can be dangerous.
Paprika
Paprika is a much-loved and colorful spice, which is full of antioxidants like vitamin A and carotenoids that support eye health and the immune system. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a spice that’s as healing as it is tasty. And it’s very, very tasty.
Oregano
This spice helps add flavor to soups, sauces and meats, but it can do a lot health-wise as well. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and some studies suggest it can help fight off infections. Definitely one to start eating more of, don’t you think?
Rosemary
Rosemary smells amazing, and it’s also fantastic for memory and concentration. It’s rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, plus it may support brain health and digestion. Toss it on roasted potatoes, bread, or chicken for something delicious that’s also healthy.
Thyme
Thyme is a small herb with big health benefits. It’s antibacterial, antifungal, and rich in vitamins C and A. Traditionally, it’s even been used for helping with coughs and respiratory issues. And if something was ever used in traditional medicine, it’s well worth taking a look at.
Cumin
Studies suggest that cumin may aid in weight management and blood sugar control – so it’s a good one to try if you’re trying to lose weight. It’s also packed with iron and antioxidants, and food-wise it works well in everything from curries to roasted veggies.
Cardamom
This spice has a sweet, floral flavor and a long history in traditional medicine – and those traditional healers knew what they were talking about. Cardamom is thought to help with digestion, freshen breath, and even support heart health. Plus, it’s rich in antioxidants. Stir it into coffee, baked goods, or rice dishes for a taste of old-fashioned wellness.
Sage
You may have had sage in your Thanksgiving stuffing, but did you know it’s actually loaded with antioxidants and compounds that may support memory and brain health? And traditionally, it’s also been used to soothe sore throats and aid digestion.
Chili Powder
Chili powder isn’t for everyone, but it’s thought to bring some good health perks. Capsaicin, the compound that makes chilies spicy, can boost metabolism, reduce pain, and support heart health. If you’re the type of person who eats a lot of spicy food anyway, you may be doing better health-wise than you know!
