samedi 9 février 2013

The Health Benefits Of Spices

By Terrie Joyner


Spices can both improve the taste of food and offer a multitude of health benefits. For some, salt is the go to seasoning that most reach for. This adds sodium to foods that may already contain an adequate amount, or even more than the daily recommended amount. This may increase body fluid and raise blood pressure. The health benefits of spices are hard to ignore when it comes to adding flavor, decreasing sodium, and even preventing disease.

Cardamom, a popular spice used in Indian foods, is high in potassium, calcium and iron. These are often vitamins and minerals that women are deficient in. Potassium helps to regulate heart rate and blood pressure, iron helps red blood cells form and calcium strengthens the bones. Cardamom is antioxidant rich and may help to ward off disease. It can be used in both savory and sweet dishes that are sure to please everyone.

Capsaicin can also be found in paprika. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It can also help increase metabolism so for those looking to lose a few pounds paprika can help. It may also lower the risk for developing cancer.

Cinnamon not only tastes delicious but it can help to maintain healthy arteries and lower cholesterol. I can also help to manage blood sugars so there are no unhealthy spikes which will aid with weight management. It of course tastes delicious in baked goods, but try it in coffee, sprinkled on your oatmeal or sweet potatoes.

Cloves have a multitude of health benefits. Cloves can be added to your favorite baked goods like cakes or cookies, and are also good in your favorite Asian meals. The essential oil in cloves is used as an antiseptic and anesthetic so it helps reduce pain during dental procedures and prevent infection. It works as an anti-inflammatory and helps to prevent gas from building in the intestines.

Capsaicin can help to speed up metabolism and improve heart health. For those who are carrying around extra pounds this is good news. Capsaicin is found in a variety of chili peppers and also helps to aid pain relief and may help to prevent prostate cancer.

Thyme is an antiseptic and antibacterial. It is so powerful that it can help rid the body of the infection known as MRSA. MRSA used to be an infection that was usually acquired while staying in a hospital, but lately it has been finding its way into the community. This infection is extremely resistant to antibiotics, but thyme has been known to assist in killing this infection.

Spices not only make food taste delicious, but the health benefits of spices are now becoming widely known. Using these and other spices generously and in everyday cooking can help to decrease blood pressure, alleviate pain, and ward off disease. Using spices can aid in good health and well-being. So skip the salt and instead add various spices to your meals to increase flavor and aid in obtaining a healthy body.




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