Coming mainly from the tropical regions of Central America, Asia and Africa, spices were previously considered luxury products. Although their use is now commonplace, their natural virtues have been somewhat forgotten. So what do spices do for you? And what roles do they play for your health?
A spice is a plant that is used to season your dishes. It provides a lot of flavor and few calories.
Cinnamon.
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the inner bark of a tree: the cinnamon tree. Popular for its aphrodisiac effects, it plays several roles within your body: – Immune system: cinnamon has an antiviral effect which strengthens your immune system and reduces the risk of colds or flu during winter. – Digestive system: by stimulating gastric secretions, it acts to prevent bloating, stomach aches (indigestion, vomiting, etc.) and facilitates digestion. – Powerful antioxidant: cinnamon contains tannins which trap free radicals and prevent cellular aging. Tannins will help reduce the damage caused by free radicals.
Cumin.
Originally from the Middle East, cumin exists in the form of whole sprouts but is often found reduced to powder. It is also possible to make an essential oil. Cumin contains many vitamins and minerals but above all: – iron: essential mineral for the transport of oxygen in the body. Cumin therefore has an action against anemia (lack of iron). – magnesium: known for its muscle relaxant action which contributes to the proper functioning of the digestive tract. It will limit muscle spasms in the digestive tract and therefore ensure better digestion. – phosphorus: mineral which ensures the proper functioning of nerve cells. – beta-carotene: antioxidant which helps fight against cellular aging by trapping free radicals.
This spice is often used to aid digestion and relieve stomach pain. Cumin also has the power to inhibit inflammation, particularly rheumatism. Studies have also shown that cumin has an action against high cholesterol and diabetes.
Did you know ?
Cumin is a galactogenic spice, which means that it stimulates lactation and allows better breastfeeding.
Nutmeg.
Nutmeg is a fruit from the nutmeg tree. It can be grated or ground. Nutmeg is a powerful spice, so use it sparingly. This spice contains minerals which play a key role for the body such as: – Calcium which allows the consolidation and maintenance of bone density. – Zinc which is an antioxidant which ensures good cell renewal. – Copper which will help you fight against oxidative stress and boost your immune system. – Iron which allows the transport of oxygen. This spice is therefore also ideal for fighting anemia. At Feed., our meals provide you on average 33% of your recommended daily intake of iron, zinc, copper and calcium.
At low doses, nutmeg helps alleviate digestive disorders (nausea, diarrhea, pain) but above all helps promote digestion. However, be careful not to reach a stage of overconsumption of nutmeg. In fact, ingesting too much (1 to 2 nuts) of this food can be toxic. Excess of this spice will cause an increase in your heart rate as well as dehydration of your body.
Did you know ?
Nutmeg contains a specific compound: myristicin. The latter is a psychoactive substance, that is to say it mainly acts on the central nervous system. In large doses, nutmeg can cause myristicin poisoning. What's more, it would have an effect similar to that of amphetamines. In prisons, nutmeg is widely used by prisoners as a drug.
Ginger.
Originally from India, it is the rhizome (root) of the plant, ginger, which is used in dishes. You can find this spice in the form of powder, jam or simply whole. Ginger has several properties: – Antiemetic: it fights against vomiting and nausea – Anti-inflammatory: it fights against inflammation, especially rheumatism. – Stimulates the immune system: ginger helps warm the body. That is to say that this spice will fight against the effects of the cold such as colds, fever or even the flu. In addition to helping digestion by stimulating bile secretion, ginger is a powerful antioxidant, anti-migraine and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Did you know ?
This spice is also known for its aphrodisiac properties.
Turmeric.
Also called Indian Saffron, turmeric is a yellow spice that you can find in powder form. It is notably used in the composition of curry. Turmeric is a spice that stimulates the immune system. In addition, it has strong anti-oxidant properties and is rich in iron and manganese. Like many spices, turmeric plays an anti-inflammatory role. It helps relieve pain linked to inflammatory diseases such as rheumatism, arthritis or tendinitis. Turmeric also helps reduce gastrointestinal pain such as stomach aches and bloating. Combined with probiotics, it would strengthen the intestinal flora. In some traditional medicines, turmeric is called the spice of long life.
The pepper.
There are 5 different types of pepper: – Black pepper: the berries are almost ripe, they are fermented and dried – White pepper: a very ripe berry from which the first outer layer (the pericardium) has been removed. – Green pepper: it is obtained when the berries are immature and are stored in a humid environment. – Red pepper: the berries have reached maturity. Pepper stimulates the appetite, helps digestion and reduces high blood pressure.
In summary.
These spices, and many others, have beneficial effects on your health and particularly on your digestion. However, care must be taken as overuse of spices can cause gastrointestinal irritation and hemorrhoids. Don't hesitate to spice up your meals, without going overboard of course!
