Spices provide all round health benefits and can really help to prevent disease.
They contain a potent mix of unique chemicals that contribute to their pungency. While they are only used in small amounts they often provide more anti-oxidants than a serving of fruit or vegetables; just 1g of black pepper has a similar anti-oxidant score to 100g of tomatoes !
So what health conditions are they beneficial for?
PAIN
Chilli peppers contain capsaicin, which blocks the transmission of pain messages in nerves, as well as triggering the release of endorphins – the brain’s own morphine-like painkillers. Other spices with analgesic properties include star anise, cloves, cumin, fennel, ginger mustard and turmeric.
DIABETES AND LOW BLOOD SUGAR
Cinnamon is believed to promote the secretion of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells and in people with type 2 diabetes cinnamon extracts were shown to improve blood glucose levels by 10 -29%. So as a means of preventing the development of type 2 diabetes it is certainly worth adding a teaspoon to your daily porridge or cereal to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
BOWEL CONDITIONS
Turmeric extracts can halve the severity of irritable bowel symptoms as it calms down the intestinal area and also helps prevent bloating. In people with uncreative colitis, adding turmeric extracts to their usual medication may significantly cut the chance of relapse.
NAUSEA
Ginger is an effective treatment for post-operative nausea and vomiting, motion sickness and nausea in pregnancy.
So spice up your health by adding spices to curries, soups, juices and stews and use turmeric to colour rice dishes and desserts. Also drink Turmeric or ginger tea or dry ginger ale.
