Spices and Herbs
Common herbs and spices may help protect against certain chronic conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
HERBS - including basil and parsley, are from plants and plant parts. Spices often come from the seeds, berries, bark, or roots of plants.
SEASONINGS - such as cinnamon, often lead lists of commonly eaten foods with the highest levels of measured antioxidant activity.
Studies show that many different herbs and spices offer health benefits. Most of the evidence exists for cinnamon, chili peppers, turmeric, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
Polyphenols, a type of plant compound, provide one of the main health benefits associated with herbs and spices.
Certain herbs and spices curb inflammation in the body, which may give rise to heart disease and cancer. For example, antioxidants in cinnamon have been linked to lower inflammation, as well as reductions in blood glucose concentrations in people with diabetes.
Liberally seasoning your food with herbs and spices may also help if you use them in place of other flavor boosters.
Using herbs and spices expands your palette without extra calories and may decrease the amount of salt, fat, and sugar you use without sacrificing flavor.
Seasonings may even play a part in weight control.
Tastier foods are more satisfying than bland ones, which you tend to eat faster, and with less fulfillment. If you are not satisfied, you’re more likely to overeat.
