Some Key Health Benefits Of Spices

By Helene Norris


When people think of the health benefits of spices, one thing that comes to mind is cure for diseases. However, these food additives have been used for many generations in ancient times and even in the modern world for many other advantages they add to the diet. There are many herbs and other organic seasoning products that add a lot of value to the human body. Read on to find some of these uses.

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 additives have the potential of preventing hypertension and diabetes. Some spices contain anti-clotting ingredients, which prevent platelets from clogging in blood vessels. This helps prevent stroke and coronary heart disease because the blood is allowed to flow efficiently. Cardamom is also known to increase anti-oxidation in the body, while cinnamon helps prevent diabetes.

Spices increase the production of hormones that uplift the moods. Serotonin, for example, is effective in combating the effects of stress and depression. These ingredients also improve brain function. They help reduce the degeneration of brain cells and even combat diseases of the nervous system. The body, therefore, functions better because stressful conditions are eliminated before they can take a toll.

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.

Spices can be used instead of salt to help in reducing the intake of sodium. This is important especially for individuals who have diabetes, hypertension or kidney disease. Food additives can be used as substitutes for salt and any other sodium-based seasonings.

Historically, people believed that flavorings are harmful to the body. Therefore, most people do not know the immense health benefits of spices. However, these food additives contain lots of phytonutrients, antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals, which are crucial for our wellness.




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