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Cinnamon can help reduce blood sugar as well as lower levels of triglyceride and LDL cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes. Consuming 1/4 teaspoon a day provides enough of cinnamon's active ingredient to help. Cinnamon also has antibacterial properties, killing bacteria that can cause food poisoning and neutralizing germs that cause bad breath and cavities. Mix cinnamon into apple sauce, pie filling, cider, muffin batter and oatmeal. Swirl a cinnamon stick in your tea, or sprinkle some ground cinnamon in your coffee before brewing. Cinnamon-flavored gum is very effective at getting rid of bad breath germs.
Black pepper is full of piperine, the stuff that makes you sneeze. It increases enzyme activity and blood flow, and that helps your body absorb nutrients and digest foods better. Pepper is an all-purpose American spice, so grind up some and add it to just about any food you prepare.
Ginger can bring relief to tummy troubles, be they bellyache or motion sickness, because gingerol decreases nausea-causing conditions in the gastrointestinal tract. Ginger can also ease arthritis and migraine pain and inflammation of blood vessels. Add ginger to stir-fries and cookie batter, drink ginger beer or tea, and enjoy candied ginger. 1/3 teaspoon of fresh ginger is plenty, but check food labels to be sure you're getting real ginger or gingerroot.
Red chili peppers contain capsaicin, a phytochemical that prevents clotting and hardening of the arteries. This anti-inflammatory helps prevent heart disease and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Add red pepper flakes to sauces, vegetables, salads and pizzas. Use fresh red peppers in cooking as well.
Tumeric's bright yellow color is caused by curcumin, and it may lessen your Alzheimer's risk by reducing the buildup of excess proteins in the brain. It can also help smooth digestive system function. Tumeric is found in yellow mustard and curry powder blends, as well as being available in the spice rack. Use tumeric in meat and seafood dishes, and season salad dressings and ketchup with a dash.
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Spices add variety to life—and to cooking. Spices also have some healing powers, as well. And while these spices may not be a substitute for a doctor's visit, adding these foods into your diet could help in many ways!
