Feeling Spicy: Flavorful Health Benefits

Healthy food choices fortify healthy bodies—but did you know spices are just as beneficial? Whether you use a dash or a dollop, these spices will lend flavor and medicinal benefits.

 

Cinnamon

Healthy and Beneficial Spices - Cinnamon

What it Contains

Manganese, calcium and fiber, along with antibacterial and clot-preventing properties.
 

What it Does

Just a teaspoon of cinnamon can help keep blood-sugar levels in check. Cinnamon can also aid in digestion.

 

 

Crushed Red Pepper

Healthy and Beneficial Spices and Herbs - Crushed Red Pepper

What it Contains

Capsaicin, the chemical that gives peppers their fiery pep, which has long been used to ease pain and prevent inflammation.

What it Does

In addition to its pain-fighting qualities, capsaicin can also boost metabolism and suppress hunger.
 

 

 

Garlic

Healthy and Beneficial Spices and Herbs - Garlic

What it Contains

Selenium, flavonoids and nutrients, plus anti-inflammatory properties.

 

What it Does

Garlic is a potent immune-system booster; it can help fight colds and boost heart health by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides.

 

 

Ginger

Healthy and Beneficial Herbs and Spices - Ginger

What it Contains

Anti-inflammatory properties and elements to block neural pathways that process pain.

What it Does

Steep ginger in your tea to fight an upset stomach, morning sickness or pain.

 

 

Oregano

Healthy and Beneficial Herbs and Spices - oregeno

What it Contains

Vitamin K and fiber as well as an abundance of antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
 

What it Does

In addition to potentially protecting against a variety of cancers, oregano is an anti-bacterial and anti-septic agent.

 

 

Turmeric

Healthy and Beneficial Herbs and Spices - Turmeric

What it Contains

The polyphenol curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and gives the spice its orange-yellow color.
 

What it Does

Curcumin relieves arthritic pain and has the potential to prevent conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease.

 

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