It’s not just the food we eat that contributes to our overall health and wellbeing. Many of the spices we use to add flavour to our meals are also loaded with health benefits. Here are six to incorporate into your diet.
-
Cinnamon
A popular and versatile spice that adds a cosy warmth to sweet and savoury dishes, cinnamon isn’t just tasty but also good for you! Studies have revealed that it can help to balance blood sugar levels (which is great for people with diabetes) and also lower your blood pressure and keep it stable.
- This sweet spice is commonly used to add flavour to oats, pancakes, apple pie and cinnamon rolls.
-
Black pepper
A seasoning that accompanies salt as the most common seasoning for savoury eats, black pepper is rich in both manganese and vitamin K, the former being a mineral essential for healthy bones, wound healing and optimal metabolism. Half a teaspoon of it each day provides you with 7% of your recommended manganese intake.
- This popular seasoning can be sprinkled or ground over any savoury dish to give it a cool heat.
-
Ginger
Fresh and fiery, ginger is another spice that is commonly found in both sweet and savoury meals. It’s been trusted for generations to treat ailments ranging from nausea to flu. This is because it is rich in immune-boosting antioxidants which help fight free-radical damage – compounds that contribute to cellular degradation.
- Ginger is versatile and can be made into a tea, added to smoothies and even eaten with your sushi!
-
Cloves
In its whole form, this aromatic spice looks like a thorn. Small as it may be, it still packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. It contains antioxidants that can play a role in several positive things, including lowering your risk of arthritis, supporting the health of your eyes as well as reducing the effects of oxidative stress on your body.
- Cloves are popular for pork roasts when whole and the ground version features regularly in festive bakes.
-
Cardamom
Cardiovascular Disease is responsible for one in six – or 17.3% of deaths in South Africa. For this reason, more people should be consuming cardamom as studies have shown that it can reduce blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension. It is also thought to be helpful in balancing blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes.
- This is a renowned spice in South African baking and desserts and you’ll find it in many biscuits and cakes.
-
Paprika
Not only does paprika add a pop of vibrant red colour to your dishes but it can also contribute to good health. That’s because this spice contains a host of antioxidants and also has anti-inflammatory properties. One of its compounds in particular, which is called capsaicin, is well known to be able to target and reduce physical pain.
- You can sprinkle a bit of paprika over your cooked carrots or your hot chips for some extra flavour.
