SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

Keeping within budget each month is a tricky balance when trying to eat the right things to help my insides functioning to their best capabilities, while not being tempted and pressured by marketing gurus to buy the latest super food.

Now and again I will splurge out and treat myself, but to me, the super foods I think are the ‘bees knees’ are the simple things you probably walk straight past.

The world is your oyster when it comes to spices.  Standing in the supermarket there is so much choice, lots of little bottles all offering their own smells and tastes, not to mention their amazing benefits to the human body.  A 50g bottle of goodness will set you back anywhere between £1-£2 and will last longer than one meals worth, unlike other super foods.  Of course, like any product, overtime the effectiveness and flavour will diminish, but I use at least one spice everyday, so to be honest I do get through them pretty quick!

So, it’s common knowledge, I think , that by adding spice to food and drink, we are adding flavour.  But that is not he only benefit.  I have mentioned before on my Instagram page various meals which I have added spices and briefly given their good points – so go and check them out for inspiration and ideas.

But I just wanted to blow your mind a little and give you a simple suggested list of spices you should try to incorporate into your daily lives. Spices offer no big doses of protein or fiber, or have a massive calorie impact, but their basic compounds are super healthy, so for a small outlay the benefits are massive.

Turmeric – The active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which gives the spice its colour and tang.  Curcumin may relieve or prevent diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.  It also has antitumor, anti arthritic and anti inflammatory properties.  Add a small dose to sauces and soups.

Curry Powder – Provides the best brain protecting boost.

Chili Powder – This spice can can rev up the metabolism and ease indigestion.

Cinnamon – Rich in antioxidants and helps prevent blood clotting and bacterial growth.  It really helps to steady and control your blood sugar levels and LDL (bad) cholesterol.  I add this to overnight oats or porridge.

Cardamom – Very high in antioxidants, and can help restore healthy levels of glutathione, which protects cells from toxins.  Add a pinch to your coffee, over fruit or yoghurt.

Ground Fennel – Per cup this spice contains nearly as much potassium as a regular sized banana.  Potassium is essential  as it helps maintain a healthy blood pressure level.

Cayenne Pepper – This is a hot spice, measuring on the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale somewhere between jalapenos and habaneros.  The heat produced can boost the metabolism and calorie burn massively.

Ground Ginger – The living compound within ginger is gingerol, which is a disease suppressor and is especially effective against colon cancer.  It’s great added to soy marinated fish or chicken. The more you can handle – the better!

Cumin – Sky high in antioxidants, in fact just half a teaspoon carries more than double the amount found in half a cup of chopped tomatoes.  Sprinkle into soups and sauces to add a bittersweet peppery taste.

Next time you visit your supermarket, take a wander up the spice aisle and give your body the super boost it’s crying out for.