Can everyday kitchen seasonings actually improve your health?
Chances are, you’re sprinkling cinnamon on your morning latte (it’s actually delicious if you haven’t tried it) or adding a dash of cayenne pepper in your favorite chili recipe. And while you might not be giving these spices much thought, your favorite seasoning actually contains powerful healing components.
You can make a huge difference to your health by sprinkling, rubbing or grinding healing spices on your food. With a mega-long list of health benefits and medicinal properties, there’s never been a better time to spice things up. Here’s a selection of our top 5 spices.
#1 Black Pepper
Black pepper is more than just a common kitchen staple—it’s been deemed the “queen of all spices.”
Aside from its kick-ass flavor, it’s nutrient-, mineral- and vitamin-rich. This magical berry is high in antioxidants, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and may fight cancer.
Not only that, black pepper also aids in digestion, improves cardiovascular function and may benefit your brain. Is there anything this healing spice can’t do?
Start grinding this bad boy over your meals ASAP!
#2 Turmeric
If you’re drinking golden lattes this fall, you already know all about this health superstar! Bitter, spicy and earthy, turmeric is best known for its show-stopping (and finger-staining) orange color.
But turmeric has crazy medicinal properties that shouldn’t be overlooked. This plant-derived root has been linked to arthritis relief, improved brain health and mood enhancement. Coined the mother of all spices, turmeric is also known to reduce inflammation and is a powerful antioxidant.
Start cooking with this powerful healing spice—just make sure you wear an apron!
#3 Cinnamon
Who doesn’t love a pumpkin spice latte? Drinking one is linked to more health benefits than you may think. Derived from tree bark, cinnamon is America’s number one spice used in baking. But don’t let its sweet taste deceive you. This mega spice can actually lower your blood sugar levels.
In fact, many studies have shown that cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants and potent anti-microbial properties, which are incredible healing agents for your body.
Spice things up by adding cinnamon to your oatmeal, smoothies or whatever recipe evokes your tastebuds. It will liven up any dish!
Related: Top 10 Superfoods to Get Lean and Toned
#4 Ginger
While this fiery spice is derived from a flowery plant, there’s nothing delicate about it. Ginger has attitude, bite and packs a flavorful punch.
A household favorite, ginger’s incredible health properties are widely known, such as nausea relief (including morning sickness), weight loss and lowered blood sugar levels.
The diversity of its sweet and zingy taste makes it a perfect candidate for anything from baked goods to seafood, meat and even beer. Don’t use it gingerly—add it to smoothies, soups or your favorite curry to make things a bit more spicy!
After all, this one-spice-fits-all is as reliable as a BFF.
Related: 7 Superfoods to Boost Your Immune System
#5 Cayenne Pepper
This healing spice needs no introduction. Derived from red pepper, it’s slightly hot, quite fiery and a front-runner for its medicinal and healing properties.
Not only is it used to add a kick to an array of dishes, but it also contains capsaicin, a chemical compound that promotes fat burn, increases metabolism and lowers blood pressure. If all of that wasn’t enough, this powerhouse spice contains anti-cancer ingredients.
Add cayenne pepper to a variety of dishes for both flavor and healing—yes you cayenne!
Spice up Your Life
No matter if you lean sweet or savory, spices can be incorporated into any diet—morning, noon and night. The result? A satisfying and healthy addition to any meal or snack. So, ditch the sugar and add some spice to your dishes to improve your health and broaden your culinary horizons.
Have you added any of these spices to your meals this week? Or maybe you have your own personal fave healing spice to add to the list. If so, leave us a comment. We’d love to hear from you!
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