THE HIDDEN PHARMACY IN YOUR SPICE RACK?! Yesterday I spoke live on @packedlunchc4 with @stephlunch about the potential magic of adding more spices (plants!) to your diet. Watch above or read below for a little summary!NB using spices should not replace the advice from your doctor - the advice below is for information only. Turmeric - Turmeric contains curcumin, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can be good for joint pain. Our ability to absorb curcumin is poor but can be enhanced by when ingested with black pepper due to the piperine. Ginger - Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger. Ginger is often promoted as a cure for motion sickness and nausea as it binds to brain receptors, though research is limited or inconclusive. Ginger shots can be expensive and contain added sugar; you can add ginger to your own spinach smoothies, stir fries and fragrant curries. Sage - Sage contains over 160 distinct polyphenols that act as antioxidants. Sage may help to relieve symptoms associated with the menopause, which present due to a drop in oestrogen levels, as sage contains phytoestrogens, which mimics the hormone oestrogen and may help alleviate the frequency of hot flushes. Paprika - Paprika is made from dried red peppers, and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A & C) and minerals. Well known antioxidants found in paprika is beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin which have been suggested to improve eye health through regulation of oxidative stress. Cinnamon - Contains compound called cinnamaldehyde, which slows down carbohydrate digestion so sugar enters bloodstream slower. Add cinnamon to porridge, as oats include insoluble fibre which is good for gut bacteria Peppermint - Menthol, a compound found within peppermint oil is a muscle relaxant and can dull pain receptors within the bowel which alleviates common IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramps and flatulence. Garlic - The compound in garlic is called allicin, and regular consumption may help to support a healthy immune system. Research suggests that allicin has both antimicrobial and anti-viral properties. Do you eat spices?
