Salt. It’s one of those condiments that you probably use every day.If you eat out a lot or grab a lot of fast food, you may find yourself adding salt more often at home than eating out at restaurant. That’s because processed food is loaded with salt in order to give it flavor.
Herbs and spices can add a lot of flavor to your meals without adding calories or fat.
Too much salt can leave you feeling bloated and lead to weight gain. It can also raise your blood pressure and put you at risk of stroke.
Now, if you don’t eat a lot of processed food, you probably don’t need to worry about getting too much salt. But, either way, there is a better way to make your meals more palatable-
herbs and spices.
Herbs and spices can add a lot of flavor to your meals without added fat or calories. Not only that, but they can even be beneficial to your health in other ways. The most common reason people don’t use herbs is because they don’t know how.
Let’s look at 9 herbs and spices and give you ideas on how to incorporate them into your meals.
Basil
Basil is an amazing antibacterial and helps your body protect against cellular damage. In addition, it’s been studied for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. The oils in basil actually work the same as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Try This Recipe: Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Cilantro
Cilantro is one of those herbs that people either love or hate. Don’t feel bad if you hate it – there’s a scientific reason for it. If you love it, though, know that it’s high in Vitamin K and will help promote healthy bones and helps your blood clot.
Try This Recipe: Mexican Lasagna
Cinnamon
This spice has been linked to lowering blood sugar levels for Type 2 diabetics. In addition to that, the warming aspect of cinnamon can satisfy your craving for sweets without adding a lot of calories.
Try This Recipe: Banana Cinnamon Bread
Ginger
Most famous for it’s anti-nausea properties, research has shown links between ginger and pain management, too. It may also protect against colon cancer and kill off ovarian cancer cells. Side benefit: It has immune-boosting properties, too.
Try This Recipe: Beef with Broccoli Stir Fry
Mint
Mint is great for treating digestive issues. Peppermint, especially, is anti-microbial (stops the growth of bacteria) and can help stop the growth of certain types of cancer. As if that’s not enough, it can help ease asthma symptoms, too.
Try This Recipe: Citrus Mint Cooler
Fresh or dried, oregano can help protect you from food poisoning.
Oregano
This little herb is a strong antifungal and antibacterial which could help protect you from unwanted food-borne illnesses.
Try This Recipe: Quick Cajun Rice Skillet
Rosemary
Rosemary is excellent for reducing inflammation, promoting circulation and boosting your immune system. It’s anti-inflammatory properties may even help with severe asthma.
Try This Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Acorn Squash with Shallots and Rosemary
Thyme
This herb is full of antioxidants that will help fight inflammation, signs of aging and even can help prevent cancer.
Try This Recipe: Rosemary and Thyme Chicken
Turmeric
This is probably the most exotic spice on the list and it’s a relative of ginger and one of the main ingredients in curries. It also packs a whollop of health benefits. It’s been linked to helping ease depression and arthritis symptoms.
Try This Recipe: Chickpea Curry
Looking for more recipes? Search the Military Shoppers Recipe contest for new treats. Want to know more about healthy foods? Visit The World’s Healthiest Foods.
