In addition to the festive taste of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric, there are many health benefits to adding these seasonings to your diet.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice frequently used in baked goods, coffees, and teas. Made from the bark of the cinnamon tree, cinnamon is not only packed with helpful nutrients like iron, zinc, calcium, manganese, and magnesium, but it also contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help control blood sugar levels and cholesterol. In addition, cinnamon contains powerful antioxidant properties that protect the body from oxidative damage that is caused by free radicals or unstable molecules that cause harm to the surrounding cells in our bodies.
How to add cinnamon to your diet:
Cinnamon can be delicious sprinkled on top of yogurt, fruit, or oatmeal; used in a stew or chili recipe; or as a meat seasoning.
Ginger
Ginger is a spice commonly used in sweet foods, like teas and candies, and savory foods, such as soups or dishes made with pasta or lentils. The root of the ginger plant contains gingerol, which aids in facilitating the movement of food through the digestive tract and promotes a quicker and smoother digestion process. It has also been known to settle an upset stomach by helping curb nausea and diarrhea. Like cinnamon, ginger also has antioxidant properties that can reduce oxidative stress from harmful free radicals. Ginger can come in different forms and while fresh ginger tends to provide more benefits than the dried version, both can be beneficial to your body.
How to add ginger to your diet:
You can add minced ginger to soups, dressings, or smoothies or brew peeled or grated ginger in water to make tea.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a member of the ginger family and not only adds flavor to dishes but also provides a boost in nutrients. Turmeric contains properties that aid with digestive health; help alleviate arthritis, respiratory infections, allergies, and depression; and protect the body from liver and heart disease. In addition to adding flavor, turmeric contains an ingredient called curcumin that can reduce symptoms of conditions like arthritis or ulcerative colitis.
How to add turmeric to your diet:
Turmeric can be added to curry, stir-fries, soups, and stews or can be used to season roasted vegetables, meats, or tacos.
Warm up the colder months with cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger, and don’t forget to incorporate these beneficial spices into your diet all year round.
