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.
Several flavorings have the ability to maintain a robust and healthy heart. Turmeric and ginger can be used as treatment and preventive agents for heart diseases. These additives can fight coronary infections and counteract disorders such as cystic fibrosis, lung diseases and muscle injuries.
Food seasonings increase the overall health of the body. Mineral such as magnesium, potassium, iron and manganese have many functions to the bones and blood. While manganese plays a big role in increasing antioxidant properties, potassium is an essential of body fluids.
Most spices have been associated with the prevention of cancer. Turmeric found in curry powder and some mustards polyphenol curcuma. This chemical compound slows down or halts the development of tumors and the spread of melanoma. On the other hand, capsaicin has the potential to completely destroy some leukemia and cancerous 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.
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 as substitutes of sodium-based seasonings such as salt. This enables people to cut-down the consumption of sodium. This is an essential consideration particularly for individuals with life threatening conditions like diabetes, hypertension or kidney disease.
Most people in history did not know the health benefits of spices. Actually, they believed that contained some potential danger. Recent studies have, however, revealed that food additives are rich in phytonutrients, essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
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