Some Key Health Benefits Of Spices

By Helene Norris


There are many Health benefits of spices. Most people, however, just use them as food additives without considering their values. Food seasonings have been used for many generations from as early as early civilization. Many of the organic and herbal ingredients have advantages, not only to the body, but also to the mind and spirit. Below follows a discussing of some common uses and benefits.

Losing weight is one of the advantages of taking spicy ingredients. They increase the metabolism, which leads to burning of more fat. Ingredients such as jalapeno and hot sauce add taste to food, hence enabling those on stick diet to stick to the program.

Seasonings are also important for your heart health. Research shows that people who eat spicy food have lower rates of stroke and heart attack. Chili peppers tend to decrease the damaging effects of bad cholesterol. In addition, capsaicin has the ability to combat inflammation, which has been identified as a major risk factor for most heart issues.

Most seasonings contain a great amount of minerals such as potassium, magnesium, iron and manganese. Potassium is an essential component of body fluids and the cell. Manganese acts as a co-factor for superoxide dismutase, which is an antioxidant enzyme.

Spices can be used to prevent cancer. Turmeric comprises of polyphenol curcumin that tends to stop or slow down the development of cancerous cells that cause leukemia, melanoma, and cancers of the breast, pancreas, brain and prostate. Some chemical compounds in flavorings have the ability to eradicate carcinogenic cells.

Spicy contents have been proven to contain anti-clotting action hence this eases blood flow preventing coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and other high blood pressure related diseases and complications . This is due to its prevention of platelets clogging in blood. Cinnamon, for example, lowers rate of inflammation, reduces level of blood glucose hence can be used to combat diabetes. Cardamom improves the antioxidant status of the body.

Research has established that spices are essential for brain functioning as they prevent development of degenerative brain conditions and diseases of the nervous system. For example, seasonings enhance the production of hormones such as serotonin, which controls levels of stress and depression.

They have rubefacient properties. These additives contain volatile oils, which increase the flow of blood and make the body to feel warm. These ingredients are normally used in home remedies to treat arthritis and sore muscles; they are used as wound dressings or incorporated in hot baths. Their aroma is also exploited in the perfume industry and even in aromatherapy.

They can be used to substitute salt in food intakes. This helps reduce the amount of sodium consumed. This use is beneficial for individuals suffering from hypertension, diabetes or kidney disease. Too much salt is not good for the body and heavy consumers can use spices as an alternative.

Most individuals have been taught that food additives are harmful to their health. However, there are countless health benefits of spices. These compounds contain naturally occurring antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, essential oils and phytonutrients. These constituents are essential for the normal functioning of the human body and they enable you to reach the daily-recommended nutrient intake.




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