Are you like me--a spice-aholic? I can't get past the condiment bar at the cafe without sprinkling a little cinnamon on top of my latte or enjoy a dinner without a dash of red pepper or maybe some oregano--mmm. It's all good, say experts. Spices have all kinds of health benefits. More after the jump ...
The bloggers over at That's Fit recently posted something on the health benefits of spices--some of which you've probably heard: "Using spice has been linked to weight loss," they write, "and using herbs and spices in place of salt can benefit your blood pressure."
But, there's more: One recent study, which That's Fit points out, found that many herbs and spices may protect your body from inflammation, a big concern for diabetics. The most effective spices, according to the researchers were cloves, cinnamon, allspice, apple pie spice and pumpkin pie spice--among others. (Mmm ... don't you feel like having a slice of pie right now? What is with me and pie these days? Oh, I forgot: I'm pregnant.)
While there's no daily recommended amount of herbs and spices, nutritionists say don't be afraid to load up. Lona Sandon, R.D. and spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, had this to say in a HealthDay article recently: "I say add as much herbs and spices as your taste buds and tummy can take," she said. "They add flavor and fun to foods without adding calories or fat. Their potential for promoting health outweighs any risks, unless, of course, you have an allergy to a particular spice."
What's your fave herb or spice?
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