KNOW THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF SPICES

       KNOW THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF SPICES

                                            

                                                  Compiled by

                                         Lizy Bonsal, Dietitian

Dr Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre  

 
       

Garlic:  Thiosulfinates (allicin) found in garlic can bring about significant reduction in total cholesterol and in blood pressure; help prevent coronary artery disease and stroke.

Rosemary:  It is a herb which is a rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids, which helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Rosemary also contains very good amounts of vitamin A. Vitamin A is known to have antioxidant properties and is essential for vision. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A is known to help  protect the body  from lung and oral cavity cancers. 

Ginger: It reduces nausea induced by motion sickness or pregnancy and may help relieve migraine headaches.

Celery: It has been used in complementary medicines to reduce blood pressure, to relieve indigestion and as an anti-inflammatory agent. It  is also used as a diuretic to remove excess water from the body.

Fenugreek:  It lowers blood LDL-cholesterol levels by inhibiting bile salt re-absorption in the colon. Fiber, trigonelline present in the seeds helps lower rate of glucose absorption in the intestines and  thus controls blood sugar levels. The seeds are therefore recommended in diabetic diet. Fenugreek seeds are added to cereals and wheat flour (bread) or made in gruel and given to nursing mothers to increase milk production.

Pepper: It has been used therapeutically in dentistry as an antiseptic for tooth-decay and gum swellings.

Coriander seed: It helps to increase bulk of the food by absorbing water throughout the digestive system and helps ease constipation. In addition, dietary fiber  binds  to bile salts (produced from cholesterol) and decreases their re-absorption in the  colon, thus helping to lower serum LDL cholesterol levels. Together with flavonoid anti-oxidants, fiber composition of coriander helps protect the colon mucus membrane from cancers.

Sesame seed: The mineral zinc in sesame seed, promotes healthy bones. Sesame also contains copper which helps in relief of rheumatoid arthritis. Calcium in sesame, helps in the prevention of many health problems, like migraine, PMS (Premenstrual syndrome), Osteoporosis and colon cancer . Magnesium content in sesame, helps to maintain respiratory and vascular health. Sesame seeds are also anti –oxidant and anti depressant. They are also used to treat constipation.