Home > Blog > Let's Spice Things Up: 3 Spices to Boost Your Health
By Kelsey Harms, Nutrition Assistant at Project Open Hand

We regularly look to food groups to ensure we are consuming balanced nutrients, but we often forget that adding a little flavor with a dash and sprinkle can make a big difference to our immune system.

Here are three spices that make a tasty and easy add on to your meals, and a few tips on how to use them!

 

NUTMEG    

Most notable health benefits:

1. Reduces pain associated with arthritis, wounds, and strains.

2. Prevents a decrease in brain function commonly associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

3. Facilitates toxin removal in the liver and kidneys.

How to use it?

Nutmeg is commonly used in baked goods like pies and sweet loaves of bread. It pairs well with oatmeal, yogurt, and - wait for it- eggs! For an easy healthy snack, sprinkle it on baked apples or roasted sweet potatoes. It is a great substitute for sugar in coffee.

 

CINNAMON 

Most notable health benefits:

1. Helps lower blood sugar levels.

2. Has anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Fights bacterial and fungal infections. 

How to use it?

Cinnamon pairs well with sweet potatoes, apples, carrots, and butternut squash. It creates a flavorful breakfast when added to Oatmeal and is a great substitute for sugar in coffee.

 

ALLSPICE 

Most notable health benefits:

1. Prevents formation of gas and relieves existing gas.

2. Increases appetite by aiding in digestion; can help treat vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach ache.

How to use it?

Cumin is a combination of nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove with a peppery undertone. It is commonly used in Jamaican cuisine for seasoning pork and chicken. It is found in pumpkin pie and other baked goods. 

Information sourced from www.nutrition-and-you.com and www.whfoods.com

Oakland

1921 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
(510) 622-0221
Email Us

San Francisco

730 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 447-2300
Email Us