It's time to branch out from salt and pepper and explore a world of spices, herbs and seasonings and all of their amazing health benefits.
7 Reasons You Should Add Spice to Your Diet With Reckless Abandon
Updated on Jul. 05, 2022
While you probably already incorporate seasonings into your dishes, you might not know about all of the amazing health benefits of spices and herbs. So, go ahead and give them a heavy shake in your next dish, your body will thank you!
Metabolism Boosting
Pack on the flavor and kick your metabolism into high gear with foods and spices like cayenne, ginger, turmeric, cumin or cinnamon. If you’re not a big fan of spice, start easy with ginger and cumin, before you work your way up to cayenne and turmeric. Shake up your plain rice with some cumin, or add an extra shake of turmeric into your favorite curry recipes.
Fight Inflammation
Cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and turmeric are what you’ll want to add in if you experience inflammation. Throw some ginger into your next smoothie for a kick, or add a little cardamom (which you’ll find in many pumpkin spice blends!) into everything from waffles to tea.
Soothe An Upset Stomach
Is your stomach bothering you? It’s true what they say, ginger really can help ease an upset stomach, whether you’re getting it through some good old ginger ale or dish enhanced with ginger. Cardamom can also do the trick to soothe nausea away.
Boost Heart Health
Your heart is super powerful, and needs a little extra attention. So why not boost your heart health with cocoa, turmeric, garlic, thyme, cayenne or rosemary. The list could go on and on with more herbs and spices that can promote a healthy heart, so don’t be afraid to add as much as you’d like into your next roast chicken or stir-fry.
P.S. Here are eight heart-healthy foods you’ll want to have in your kitchen at all times!
Fight Off Bacteria
Fend off diseases and bacteria with earthy cinnamon, antioxidant-rich oregano and detoxifying coriander. Your body will definitely thank you in advance when you don’t get sick! Have a cold already? Eat these foods to get better fast when you’re sick.
Lower Blood Pressure
Cardamom, cocoa and garlic are all heart-healthy spices that can help lower your blood pressure naturally, whether you have a chronic condition, or are experiencing a spike. Combine tangy cardamom and sweet cocoa into a number of desserts, like coconut tarts and cookies for a [somewhat] healthier dessert option.
Increase Circulation
Poor circulation is common, and occurs when your blood isn’t freely flowing to certain parts of the body. Clear it out and bump up your circulation by adding a power-trio of parsley, garlic and cayenne into any of your dishes, from pasta to fish.
So next time you’re thinking about adding some new spices into your dinner, go for it. Your body and your taste buds will definitely thank you! Here’s a list of essential spices you need in your kitchen!
Looking for more ways to stay healthy with food? Stock up on these for heart health.
Heart-Healthy Oils
Canola oil is a good choice because it's low in saturated fat, which can aid in controlling cholesterol levels. Olive oil, similar to canola, is another popular choice. It's known for its golden color and assistance in lowering bad cholesterol (or LDL). Both are versatile and can be used for many cooking methods in the kitchen. Try either in this healthy recipe for pan-roasted chicken and vegetables.
Whole Grains
You may have these in your pantry already! Whole grains can be found in whole wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, hulled barley, whole grain pasta and more. Learn how to use them in these delicious (and incidentally whole grain) recipes. Whole grains are great because they are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber which aids digestion. It's also been proven that a diet that includes whole grains can reduces the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, keeping a healthy weight and helping you feel fuller, longer.
Beans & Legumes
Canned and dried beans (a.k.a. pulses—no, not the pulse on your wrist!) are a good source of plant-based protein. They can even be substituted for meat! These ingredients contain antioxidants, fiber and potassium that can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and inflammation. Get started with our 100 tasty ways to use canned beans! Pro tip: Look for low-sodium beans and drain and rinse before using. Frozen beans are also a great option.
Nut Butters
Natural peanut butter, almond butter and cashew butters naturally contain healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. They can also play a key role in weight loss by keeping you full and satisfied. Did you know that peanut butter is super easy to make at home? Try it tonight.
Canned Fish
Canned salmon and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids (a type of fat not produced by the body). Omega 3s can help reduce the risk of stroke and lower blood pressure. The high protein content of canned salmon can help maintain muscle and keep hair, skin and nails looking healthy. Besides, who doesn't love a comforting tuna casserole? Pro tip: Look for canned fish varieties that are vacuum-sealed or packed in water versus oil.
Popcorn
Healthy, wholesome snack options like popcorn are the perfect food to have around the house. Popcorn is a whole grain and aids in digestion. Learn how to make it the old-fashioned way. Plain popped popcorn is low in calories and helps 'keep you regular'. Bonus: It can also help control blood sugar (which is very important for diabetics!). Pro tip:Â Dried fruits, like raisins, are also good snacks to keep on hand. Look for brands without added sugar.
Nuts
Though high in calories, nuts (think: almonds, walnuts, cashews) are shelf-stable and a great on-the-go snack! They are packed with protein and fiber. Research suggests that eating nuts can reduce the risk of developing blood clots and inflammation. Pro tip: Stay away from nuts with salty or sweet toppings and candy mix-ins. Pre-portioned, roasted and unsalted nuts are your best bet. If you want a healthy boost of flavor, try this spiced-up recipe.
Seeds
Chia, flax and hemp seeds have become uber popular over the years. (Psst! Chia seeds made the list of our top 8 superfoods.) All three have enormous antioxidant properties and are great sources of fiber. They also contain an impressive list of vitamins and minerals. Not too familiar with flax seeds? Here's how to use them in your recipes. Pro-tip: Chia seeds are a complete protein and can be made into chia pudding.
