Spices serve as more than just flavor enhancers; they can also be great for your health. Incorporating certain spices into your daily meals can combat inflammation, enhance cognitive function, support heart health, and even help you shed some pounds—all of which are priorities for many people as they age. Seasoning your dishes with a few powerful ingredients could help you elevate your health!
To discover two of the best spices that can help you do just that, we spoke to nutritionist Krutika Nanavati. She highlights turmeric and cinnamon as standout options that can contribute significantly to maintaining optimal health beyond the age of 40. Let’s explore the benefits of each spice below.
1. Turmeric
Well-known for its vibrant yellow hue and distinctive, earthy flavor, turmeric offers more than just culinary appeal—it boasts amazing anti-inflammatory properties that may stave off aging effects on the brain, heart, and body. According to Nanavati, the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric stem primarily from its active compound, curcumin, which studies suggest "may aid in the prevention of heart diseases and improve cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation."
Incorporating turmeric into your diet is a breeze. "It can be incorporated into sauces, soups, or smoothies," Nanavati suggests. "It is also a key ingredient in curry powder, offering a convenient way to add this beneficial spice to a variety of dishes."
2. Cinnamon
Got a sweet tooth? We've got good news! While refined sugar may come with many health risks, cinnamon, on the other hand, serves as a fantastic, sweet spice for your body and brain. "Cinnamon's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are due to its high content of cinnamaldehyde," Nanavati explains. "Research indicates it may lower blood pressure and cholesterol, contributing to overall heart health. Additionally, cinnamon has been identified to have potential neuroprotective effects."
Nanavati recommends incorporating cinnamon into a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory, or adding it to beverages like coffee or tea. "It's also an excellent addition to oatmeal or baked goods," she concludes.
Bottom line
Although adding these spices to your meals can certainly benefit your health, it's important to remember that staying as healthy requires commitment to a number of healthy habits. However, small changes—like sprinkling some cinnamon into your morning cup of joke—can all add up to a big difference over time.
