If you haven’t yet, check out our post here on how cinnamon can help lower your blood sugar.
And to that point – spices are the very embodiment of “big things some in small packages.”
These tiny grains of roots, seeds, and herbs can really pack some nutritional benefits in a very easy way. So in honor National Nutrition Month, let’s see what other spices boast some surprisingly positive benefits for a better, healthier you.
Cumin
Cumin is made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant and if it isn’t already a common staple in your spice rack, it will after you read how many benefits this brown, fragrant powder has!
It is rich in iron, promotes digestion, and according to studies, may help in fighting diabetes, high cholesterol, and inflammation – among many other things!
You can use cumin to season your meats and veggies for grilling, for your chilli recipe or bean soup, and so much more!
Cayenne Pepper
Calling all my spicy food lovers! If you love a little heat in your meals, then you probably already worship at the altar of the almighty cayenne pepper. Earthy red like the surface of Mars, you already know cayenne pepper can pack a good punch – but did you know it packs a good nutritional punch, too?
It’s somewhat well known that spicy foods in general can help boost your metabolism and reduce hunger to a certain extent – cayenne is no exception – but cayenne pepper also has benefits like potentially aiding digestion, relieving joint and nerve pain, lowering blood pressure, and even reducing the risk of cancer. That’s hot!
Fenugreek
Fenugreek might be the least well-known of this group, but it shouldn’t be, considering all its health benefits. Fenugreek is a plant that’s known scientifically as Trigonella foenum-graecum, and its seeds (where the spice is derived) has a nutty, sweet-ish flavor.
According to studies, fenugreek can help women increase their production of breast milk and help men increase their levels of testosterone, help lower blood sugar, and like our friends the cayenne pepper and cumin, fenugreek can also help with cholesterol, inflammation, and more.
Incorporating these spices into your diet consistently can make a huge difference in the long run. Think of it like a savings account. Every penny counts!
