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Condiments are easily one of the best ways to add a little extra flavor to any meal. They’re cheap and versatile and can make even the driest sandwich taste like a restaurant grade delicacy. But not every condiment is created equal. While all condiments are delicious in their own right, there’s one in particular that experts say can actually work as an anti-inflammatory–and even increase your fat burning capabilities!
Mustard is the best condiment to incorporate more frequently into your diet if you’re looking to flavor your foods with added health benefits. Nutritionist Lisa Richards notes, “Many foods and ingredients are assigned an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) value which refers to its antioxidant content. Mustard’s ORAC value is 29257, which is a respectable amount in terms of its ability to have an anti-inflammatory reaction.”
Antioxidants are the primary factor as to whether or not a food can reduce inflammation. Richards explains that a food must be rich in phytonutrient content in order to be considered anti-inflammatory--something which is most frequently seen in the vibrant coloring it provides plants. Richards continues, “Mustard’s bright color alludes to its rich phytonutrient content.”
In addition to acting as an anti-inflammatory, mustard can also be included in meals if you’re looking for added fat burn. Richards explains, “Anti-inflammatory and fat burning can both lead to weight loss and reduced numbers on the scale, but they are not one in the same. However, mustard’s antioxidant content enables it to both reduce inflammation in the body and help burn fat more efficiently.”
The next time you're looking to spice up a boring meal, don’t hesitate to add some mustard to your plate. With anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to contribute to healthy fat burn, you can’t go wrong with this classic condiment!
