They’re pretty, delicious and drumroll please…they’re good for you!
Yes, I’m talking about the secret our forefathers knew way back in the
day. Spices have untapped health benefits and have recently been
stealing the scene as powerful cancer preventatives and fighters. Below
are five you might want to consider adding to your diet.
1. Garlic
No surprise here. The stinking rose is one of the most potent weapons
in preventing cancer, particularly colon cancer. Containing the
photochemical allicin, garlic stimulates the production of
cancer-fighting enzymes. Daily garlic consumption can lower total
cholesterol and triglyceride levels by 10 percent and has the added
benefit of keeping vampires at bay.
2. Ginger
For
centuries, grandma has been prescribing this knobby little root for an
upset tummy but we now know that it holds anti-inflammatory properties,
shows promise in treating cancer, osteoarthritis and, when used
topically, rheumatoid arthritis. It can be used as an appetite
stimulant, and a treatment for nausea, whether legit (flu) or
not-so-legit (hangover).
3. Cinnamon
Besides being a yummy
addition to coffee, cinnamon protects against Type 2 diabetes and heart
disease. Derived from tree bark, this wonderful spice stimulates the
bodies circulatory systems. Just half a teaspoon taken daily lowers
blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. It also counteracts
congestion, may be useful treating osteoarthritis and improves blood
circulation.
4. Turmeric
Who can resist the gorgeous yellow
color of this cancer-fighting spice? Lately turmeric has been the
darling of the spice world as researchers have discovered that, not only
does it fight cancer, but contains an entire spectrum of other health
benefits, including inflammation-fighting compounds called curcuminoids.
These compounds may help prevent Alzheimer’s, arthritis, and carpal
tunnel syndrome. When used topically turmeric has been known to help
heal skin infections.
5. Cayenne Pepper
Arriba! Cayenne
pepper contains capsaicin, yet another cancer preventative. When used in
mass it can cause heartburn but a little sprinkled onto everyday foods
should be enough for you to see the benefits. Cayenne peppers are full
of beta carotene, other antioxidants and immune boosters and helps to
build healthy mucous membranes tissues – our first level of defense
against bacteria and viruses.
Source: care2.com
No comments:
Post a Comment