Healthy Seasonings for Healthy Meals
Healthy meals do not need to be boring and bland. The best way to enjoy a healthy diet is to add spices and herbs for variety. Adding variety to your meals is important in keeping you on-track until you are used to a healthy diet. We have here a list of seasonings that will make you enjoy your meals at the same time boost health benefits.
Black pepper – other than adding zest to your meals, black pepper can prevent cancer cells from multiplying. Laboratory tests show that the compound found in black pepper, piperine, inactivated cancer cells by leaving healthy cells alone. So make sure you always have a pepper shaker on your table.
Chives – this tasty garnish was found to help neutralize the effects of carcinogens and prevent tumor growth. Chives are part of the allium family of herbs; with onions, garlic, leeks, and many more. Studies found that people who eat alliums regularly are less likely to experience hip osteoarthritis.
Cinnamon – this one will help your blood sugar in check, lowering your risk of diabetes. Cinnamon can help cells use sugar and insulin better. Add it to your tea or coffee, fresh apple slices and other meals.
Ginger – you can add ginger into almost any food for added spice. It is known to control motion sickness, soothe a sour stomach, reduce cholesterol, slow down cancer cells, and reduce post-workout soreness. Just make sure to keep it fresh!
Oregano – this herb is rich in antioxidants; in fact, it has 42 times more antioxidants than apples. According to research, this herb can beat inflammation, decreasing your risk of heart disease and cancer.
Parsley – remember that garnish on your side dish? Do not throw it away; instead, eat it after your meal and it will give you a fresher breath. Research shows that it can slow down growth of prostate cancer cells in men. This is because of the flavonoid present in the herb called apigenin.
Rosemary – this one adds flavor to your grilled burgers and steak, the best part is that it can also prevent the production of cancer-causing substances in your food called heterocyclicamines (HCAs). Studies also suggest that it may prevent breast cancer cells and leukemia cells from multiplying.
Saffron – this reddish-yellow herb helps lower your anxiety. It was found to increase good mood and decrease anxiety and depression. In another study, they found that having saffron daily helped overweight women snack 50% less.
Thyme – this herb is used to flavour mouthwash and it is known for its antiseptic properties. It was also found to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Include this in your salad or stuffing to help maintain a happy heart.
Turmeric – this spice is popular in Indian foods and contains the compound curcumin. Studies suggest that curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that keeps memory sharp, prevent arterial damage, and relieve you from next-day soreness after a workout. Studies also suggest that it may prevent pancreatic and colon cancer. A teaspoon of yellow mustard a day can provide you the perfect dose.
Next time you visit your grocery store for healthy foods, grab these herb and spices to give your meals a flavourful touch while keeping yourself in the pink of health.
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