Spices and aromatic herbs have been widely valued over the centuries, both for their medicinal properties and for providing unmistakable and unique flavors. However, in addition to the attractive aromas and colors: aromatic herbs and spices are full of antioxidants, preventing premature cell aging, improve immunity, are excellent natural anti-inflammatories, can help control blood glucose and aid in digestion.
Spices were undoubtedly the gold of the East, having been widely spread throughout the world, after the discovery of the sea route to India, being an important currency in commercial transactions. Today, they are the same spices that immortalize and flavor food, with unique flavors that bring different cultures closer together and make us travel anywhere in the world through gastronomy.
Os Outro Montes highlights some herbs and spices to consider adding to your next meal:
- Cinnamon lowers blood sugar levels and has a powerful anti-diabetic effect. It can lower blood sugar by several mechanisms, including slowing the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract and improving insulin sensitivity. Cinnamon is not a substitute for diabetes medications or a carbohydrate-controlled diet, but it can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle.
- Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Curcumin is a remarkably powerful antioxidant, helping to fight oxidative damage and boosting the body's own antioxidant enzymes. This is important because oxidative damage is believed to be one of the main mechanisms behind aging and many diseases. Curcumin is also strongly anti-inflammatory, to the point that it can match the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatories.
- Did you know that ginger can eliminate nausea? Ginger is considered by Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, one of the best natural remedies in the world. Originating in Asia, it has been used for thousands of years to treat upset stomach, diarrhea and nausea as it has a calming effect on the digestive system. It may also be recommended for pregnant women to soothe pregnancy-related nausea and reduce stomach pain after surgery. It also has antiseptic properties, improving flu conditions and colds, anticoagulant, vasodilator, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and helps to fight flatulence.
Whether you use fresh or dried spices, you'll always get beneficial compounds. Experts say that frying or grilling can deplete the antioxidants in spices, while microwaving, boiling or stewing foods with spices can actually increase their antioxidant levels. Regardless of the other health benefits, spices add flavor to foods and can make healthy meals delicious, as well as being a healthy way to change up your eating routine. Enjoying food is the key to maintaining long-term healthy habits.
