THEand spices are not just for giving aroma and flavour to dishes: they are also excellent allies for health. Used for thousands of years in cooking and traditional medicine, they contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help protect cells, reduce inflammation and even support the heart and brain. According to experts, three or four grams a day of some spices can have amazing effects on the body, improving digestion, immune system and metabolism. Here you are four of the most powerful to include in your Christmas menu.
Ginger: the spicy touch that protects the stomach
The gingerused in traditional Asian medicine, has a strong, citrusy flavor that lends itself to both hot tea and Christmas desserts. According to nutritionists it is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamin C and B vitamins, magnesium and potassium. The most important compound, the gingerolreduces inflammation and acts as a powerful antioxidant. They’re barely enough 3-4 grams to aid digestion, calm nausea or stomach pain and give a boost to the immune system.
Cinnamon: sweetness and protection in a teaspoon
There cinnamon it is the queen of Christmas biscuits, also perfect on hot chocolate or autumn soups. Obtained from the bark of the cinnamon tree, it contains minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties thanks to polyphenols such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid. Just a few grams a day is enough regulate blood sugar, strengthen bones and support the immune systemmaking this spice a little treasure to always have on hand in the kitchen.
Cocoa: a cure-all for the heart and mind
Chocolate lovers will be happy to know that the cocoa powder it is rich in flavonoidspowerful natural antioxidants. Just one or two tablespoons a day can be beneficial to the heart and circulationand – even if it is not scientifically proven – for some researchers it also gets better memory and cognitive functions. The more cocoa the more dark (at least 70%), the higher the quantity of nutrients. Perfect for a hot chocolate, a dessert or even a simple Christmas smoothie.
Cloves: small but very powerful
THE clovesused for centuries in Asian medicine, are among the spices with the higher antioxidant content. They contain eugenolwhich have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese. Enough a teaspoon to enrich desserts and drinks and at the same time lend a helping hand gum health, blood pressure and metabolism.
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