Forget salt! Next time you want to add flavor to your food, do it with herbs and spices instead of salt. Herbs and spices are an easy way to ensure you’re getting more nutrients in your meals without adding calories.
Beware of Salt
Salt in the diet is a two-edged sword–we can’t live without it, but too much can threaten our lives. Salt makes you retain water, which can leave you feeling full and bloated. The vast majority of prepared and processed foods contain sodium, and usually a fair amount of it. Adding even more to these foods in the form of table salt only adds insult to injury.
Benefits of Herbs and Spices
Not only do herbs and spices have fantastic flavors, but they also have nutritional benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. In addition, many spices help increase your metabolism. The higher your metabolism, the more calories you will burn and store less food as body fat.
Cinnamon is a spice of particular interest for those who have Type 2 Diabetes. Studies have shown including a regular dose of cinnamon in your daily diet can help lower blood glucose levels, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol.
Studies suggest that garlic, one of the most popular herbs, may have cancer-fighting benefits.
Cayenne pepper and paprika contain capsaicin, a phytochemical shown to help with circulation and cardiovascular health.
Oregano, an herb used in many Italian dishes, may help respiratory health. Oregano features potent antioxidants and thymol, a compound used in over-the-counter bronchial products.
Rosemary may help prevent damage to the blood vessels thus reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Ginger is especially helpful for digestive health, particularly with bouts of mild indigestion or gas.
The antioxidants in basil lend it anti-inflammatory power, which may help improve cardiovascular health.
Turmeric, which contains curcumin, can prevent the growth of cancer cells.
Spice It Up!
Modify your salt habit and opt for foods and recipes containing herbs and spices. Garlic’s unique taste and versatility makes it popular among cuisines around the world. You’ll find basil, rosemary and oregano in many Italian dishes, while cayenne pepper is popular in Mexican cooking. Ginger is a staple in Asian recipes and turmeric is featured in many Indian dishes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with a recipe. You never know what adding a little pinch of this herb or a smidge of a new spice might do for your chicken, fish, meat, pork, fruits, vegetables, soups or salads!
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