When you are told to stick to healthy foods and avoid fast and process foods, it is possible that you associate it with bland, boring dishes.
However, eating healthy doesn’t have to be that way. By adding herbs and spices, you can create tasty and delicious dishes that have added health benefits.
Not only can herbs and spices make your meals flavorful, but they can also help fight various health conditions, including cancer and heart diseases.
Their use can be traced back to ancient times, and various scientific studies are providing support to their potential health benefits that can extend the human’s lifespan.
Let’s look at the top herbs and spices you should include in your diet to live a healthier, longer life:
Turmeric
Turmeric is most popularly known in curries from Indian and South Asian dishes. It is rich in antioxidants, and its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease. Turmeric also helps prevent brain diseases, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. At the same time, it has antibacterial and anti-viral properties, and it helps mitigate oxidative stress, enabling you to heal at a cellular level.
Ginger
Ginger is a spice that is closely related to turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in minerals, including potassium, niacin, iron, magnesium, and copper. One of its most popular use is in treating upset stomach, but it is also beneficial in preventing chronic illnesses, including cancer. It is also great for preventing stomach ulcers, relieving menstrual cramps and flu symptoms, nausea, and diarrhea.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an antimicrobial spice that comes from a tree bark ground into a powder. This spice is one of the easiest to integrate into your diet. You can add it to your coffee or tea or favorite breakfast cereals. As a sweet yet sugar-free spice, cinnamon is popular among diabetics. Cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and manage your weight.
Chili Peppers
If you like spicy foods, you would love to know that chili peppers are also beneficial to your health. Because chilis can improve your metabolism, they are great for your digestive system. They can also keep your blood vessels in good condition and improve your immune system. Chili peppers, which are common in Latin American, South American, and Asian cuisines, are loaded with Vitamin C, E, and A.
Garlic
Garlic is one of the basic ingredients in many dishes you cook at home. It is rich in allicin that gives its antibacterial properties. Garlic can help prevent you from catching a common cold and reduce your risks of getting heart diseases. It can also aid in regulating cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a vibrant green herb that is packed with several health benefits. It smells great and tastes great. Just smelling it can help improve your memory, focus, and mental clarity. It contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and thiamin. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in fiber, making it good for the gut and digestion. Rosemary can relieve nausea, upset stomach, and skin issues like dandruff and dryness.
Parsley
Parsley is a superfood that is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. It is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, iron, and calcium. It is known as a chemo-protective plant due to its ability to fight damage to DNA. Parsley is also popular among people with diabetes because it can help reduce blood sugar. It also has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties.
Sage
Like rosemary, sage is another beautiful herb that tastes and smells great, making every dish extraordinary. Sage is known for promoting longevity, healing, and wisdom. After all, quality of life is a huge factor in living longer. Sage is high in vitamin K, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is good for the brain and memory, as well as in improving blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and symptoms of menopause.
The Takeaway
What’s life without spice, right? Incorporate these herbs and spices in your diet. Not only will they make your dishes tasty and delicious, but they can also give you several health benefits that will support your health so you can live longer.
