Spices – you probably have a cabinet or rack full of them. From the spices you rarely use and can hardly pronounce to the ones you reach for almost daily, these often overlooked ingredients are actually packed with amazing benefits and antioxidants that can support your health in more ways than one!

Spices boost flavor without adding extra calories, and many have been shown to help boost your metabolism.

Better yet, they can be easily found in any grocery store and added to a variety of dishes to enhance flavor!

5 SPICES YOU NEED TO BE EATING

While there are a variety of spices and herbs with amazing health benefits, these 5 spices really need to be on your next grocery list, and here’s why.

1. TURMERIC

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Among its many benefits, it may be used to lower blood sugar, improve insulin resistance, and may even protect against type 2 diabetes. Turmeric has even been shown to slow the blood vessel and nerve damage associated with diabetes. In addition, studies have shown it may help to reduce the causes of cholesterol build-up in the cardiovascular system and, unlike traditional statin drugs, it can do this without damaging the liver and kidneys.

2. CAYENNE PEPPER

Cayenne Pepper has been shown to have a positive effect at various stages of digestion. It can stimulate enzyme production and gastric juices, improving the body’s ability to metabolize food. It has also been shown to suppress the appetite and soothe inflammation from food allergies and intolerances while raising body temperature and boosting metabolism.

3. CINNAMON

Another wonderful spice that may help with weight management is cinnamon. It has been shown to stabilize and regulate blood sugar, controlling the release of energy from food. It may also have anti-fungal properties, which can help to restore a healthy gut microbiota and eliminate cravings. Cinnamon has also been shown to mobilize fat stores in the liver to help lower LDL cholesterol and promote fat-burning.

4. GARLIC

Studies have shown that garlic has antibacterial properties and may have the ability to block the formation of carcinogens, enhance DNA repair, reduce cell proliferation, and more. So, the next time you’re cooking with garlic or sautéing some veggies, throw in a little extra!

5. GINGER

Ginger has been shown to have amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can combat nausea and indigestion. Ginger is antimicrobial, can lower blood sugar and cholesterol, and may even prevent blood platelets from sticking together. You can cook with ginger or add it to your herbal tea for a plethora of added benefits.

So, the next time you’re trying to plan your menu, spice it up with a recipe that calls for one of these flavorful ingredients. Your body (and taste buds) will thank you!

Do you have a go-to recipe that includes one of the above spices? Share it in the comments!

Spice up your menu with this delicious Chickpea Curry Comfort recipe.