Food

The Anti-Inflammatory Spices Doctors Say You Should Be Adding To Literally Everything For A Healthier Body Over 40

April 7, 2024 by Mariam Qayum
shefinds | Food

Inflammation, while a natural response in the body, can become chronic and lead to various health issues, particularly as we age. Fortunately, nature offers a plethora of anti-inflammatory spices, each containing bioactive compounds that have been researched for their potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Incorporating these spices into the diet of individuals over 40 can offer numerous health benefits, potentially aiding in the management of various conditions.

We spoke with Dr. Paul Daidone; Joanna Wen, health coach and founder of Spices & Greens; and Dr. Gretchen San Miguel, MD and Chief Medical Officer for Medi-Weightloss, to learn about two anti-inflammatory spices that you should add to your meals for a healthier body over 40. They revealed that ginger and turmeric are some of the best options. Read on to find out why.

 

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ginger and ginger powder

Ginger

Ginger, renowned for its distinct flavor and aromatic qualities, is not only a staple in cuisines worldwide but also boasts a remarkable array of health benefits, particularly for individuals over 40 seeking to combat inflammation and promote overall wellness.

"Ginger contains compounds like gingerol, which have been linked to decreased inflammation and improved cognitive function," says. Dr. Daidone.

It also has a positive impact on your metabolism, which tends to slow down as you age. Wen says that ginger "increases your body's thermogenesis, which causes a higher rate of calorie burning."

On top of a fast metabolism, other benefits include its blood sugar-stabilizing and appetite-suppressing properties, which Wen says can "speed up the process of weight loss naturally."

powdered turmeric

Turmeric

Central to turmeric's potent anti-inflammatory properties is its active compound, curcumin, which has been extensively studied for its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways in the body.

"Spices such as [turmeric] have a thermogenic effect on the body and cause the body to generate more heat, thus burning more calories," Lin says. San Miguel adds that, "The antioxidant property of turmeric can help decrease insulin resistance, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and other metabolic conditions resulting from obesity."

Just like ginger, it's also great for your brain! "Curcumin may help improve brain function by reducing oxidative stress," says Dr. Daidone.

Whether used in cooking or consumed as supplements, these spices offer a natural and holistic means to support a healthier body and mitigate the risks associated with chronic inflammation.

Author:

Editorial Assistant

Mariam is an Editorial Assistant at SheFinds, covering everything from celebrity fashion to health and wellness. A true city girl at heart, she splits her time between New York and Philly, bringing that hustle and creativity wherever she goes. With a resume packed with internships and editorial roles, she's built a solid expertise in the field. When she's not writing, pitching, or obsessing over the latest TikTok trends, you can find her hanging with family, cooking up something delicious, or dreaming about her next travel adventure. You can reach Mariam at [email protected].

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