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By Kate McMahon


Food must be enjoyed for its true essence to be brought out. Many cultures and countries thrive on the culinary fare they represent. Each ingredient is integral to the overall presentation and taste of any particular dish of any such culture or country. With the growing awareness of nutrition and healthy eating presiding over the culinary world, healthy spices have also become an essential component of any kitchen. Not only do they lend rich flavor and aromatic pleasures, they also help prevent diseases and increase fitness levels.

One of the first in the list of such foods is cinnamon. Its rich fragrance and irresistible taste leave no room for complaint in the coffee it is added to. Used in baking cakes, it further adds to the finger licking quality of the dish. However, its use is not limited to beverages and sweetmeats only. It is used in cooking meats and vegetables as well. Rich in antioxidants, cinnamon is also known to contain healthy doses of calcium, manganese and iron. For those suffering from diabetes, cinnamon is an essential part of the diet.

Another spice rich in iron is cumin. It also reduces blood sugar levels, like cinnamon does. Furthermore, it is a known remedy against bacteria such as the ones that cause stomach ulcers. Another area where it shows effectiveness is the reduction of inflammation caused by arthritis. It can be added to vegetables as an essential ingredient while cooking or as seasoning.

Turmeric is the yellow powder used extremely commonly in Indian cooking. However, its qualities are such that consumed with a glass of milk, it can help fight a cold and sore throat too. Moreover, it is also characterized as food that helps fight the risk of cancer.

Ginger is a food that has a range of health benefits. Its anti inflammatory properties are quite popular. It proves effective in curing a sore throat. Ginger tea is a popular concoction the world over. Also used in cooking, ginger is a known accompaniment of its cousin, garlic.

Another popular food item that is replete in advantages to the body is sage. It goes well with most vegetables, and is known to make the mind sharper. Children are often given food that is seasoned with sage to help improve their academic performance.

Saffron is the spice of the kings and queens. This is so due to its costly nature and use in only very exclusive preparations. Saffron rice, shellfish made with saffron as well as some exotic desserts make this delicacy so sought after. It is, however, also the price one must pay to cure depression and anxiety. Those suffering premenstrual syndrome can also hugely benefit from its consumption.

A spice that is not exactly very popular across the world is rosemary. However, those countries and cuisines that do use it are well aware of its goodness quotient. Rosemary is known to reduce the risk of cancer. It is also known to contain a rich amount of antioxidants, necessary to pump blood into the body. It can be sued in vegetable or met preparations.

Eating good food is indeed necessary. When it also comes with health benefits, you are up for a bonus package of sorts. This is what makes healthy spices so full of advantages. They not only add good taste to foods, but also raise the wellbeing quotient by multiple levels.




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