Spices not only intensify and enhance the flavor of foods but also have health-enhancing properties. Here we tell you what they are.
Black pepper
This popular spice stimulates the digestive processes and has an excellent effect on the gastrointestinal tract. It also improves blood circulation, prevents blood clots, eliminates toxins and has a positive effect on metabolic processes.
The alkaloid capsaicin, which gives peppers a spicy flavor, is a powerful antioxidant that protects against damage to cell walls, prevents the development of cardiovascular diseases and even some forms of cancer, says the specialist.
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Cinnamon
It is considered a natural metabolic catalyst and that is why it is recommended for everyone who wants to lose weight, says the nutritionist.
The antioxidants that compose it help to reduce the levels of glucose and cholesterol in the blood, to improve the blood circulation and to produce lubricant for the cartilage.
Also, cinnamon has antimicrobial properties.
Paprika, or colored chilli
A natural aphrodisiac, a product that stimulates sexual desire. It also has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract and helps eliminate cramps and bloating.
According to the expert, it is beneficial for the circulatory system as it dilutes the blood, improves its flow to the tissues and organs and also prevents the formation of blood clots due to the high content of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, E, K, PP, iron, calcium, magnesium and essential oils.
Ginger
The ginger root acts as an antispasmodic, analgesic, bactericidal and anti-inflammatory at the same time. Also, it is good for female health. Pregnant women are advised to consume ginger to reduce nausea during toxicosis, the health expert points out.
Ginger calms and relieves fatigue. Ginger tea is taken if you have a cold, cough or rhinitis. Ginger is also rich in vitamins and minerals. Its spicy flavor is due to gingerol, a strong antioxidant.
However, the marinated ginger that is widely used in Japanese cuisine is not as effective as it contains too much salt and sugar.
Garlic
It has an antiseptic effect due to its high content of essential oils and phytoncides, which is why garlic in any of its forms is an excellent remedy for colds.
However, it has other lesser-known properties, for example, it can reduce the level of sugar in the blood, decrease the level of clotting and even fight tumor cells due to its high content of thiols – antioxidants capable of neutralizing some carcinogens – the nutritionist emphasizes.
Garlic is also rich in saponins, which are substances known to lower blood cholesterol levels. Due to its allicin content, it can be considered a natural aphrodisiac, adds the dietician.
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Bay leaf
It is an excellent antispasmodic that has an anti-inflammatory effect and prevents decomposition, putrefaction and fermentation. Bay leaf essential oils are also good for calming the nervous system.
Clove
Clove essential oils have a positive effect on the nervous system: they calm, relieve tension and irritability, tiredness and fatigue. In addition, cloves increase the appetite and the production of digestive juices, according to the specialist.
Turmeric
This spice helps in the fight against excess weight, catalyzes the metabolism and removes excess fluid from the body. It is also good for the blood system: it helps lower cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, thins the blood and improves circulation.
The active substance in turmeric – curcumin – has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Coriander
It is a good remedy to calm the nervous system. Hippocrates still in the V-IV centuries BC knew its properties and used them, for example, against seizures and anxiety. In addition, it eliminates congestion in the bile ducts, accelerates the regeneration process, tones blood vessels and reduces the risk of clots and improves appetite.
Who should limit spices in their diet?
People with gastrointestinal diseases and prone to allergic reactions, children and pregnant women should not abuse spices.
On the contrary, for the elderly, moderate consumption of spices not only provides a dose of beneficial substances – vitamins, minerals, antioxidants – but also helps increase appetite and diversify the flavor.
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In addition, the use of spices reduces the amount of salt and sugar in meals, which will also have a positive impact on health, concludes the specialist.