Spice of Life
5 seasonings you should start using now
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CINNAMON
Researchers at Maryland’s Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center discovered that cinnamon makes cells more responsive to insulin (the hormone that regulates glucose in the blood and allows for faster muscle growth after workouts). Other studies suggest that ingesting just a half teaspoon of the spice per day will help lower your risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
HOW TO USE IT
Add to sliced apples or bananas, sprinkle on oatmeal or sweet potatoes, use to flavor protein pancakes, or add it to your chili.
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GARLIC POWDER
It’s been touted as having anti-infective, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and cholesterol-lowering properties, and as if that weren’t enough, one of its active ingredients—allicin—has been shown to possess powerful antibiotic, anti-fungal, and blood pressure–lowering capabilities. Garlic has a pungent, “hot” flavor on its own, and it can greatly enhance most other flavors in cooking.
HOW TO USE IT
Sprinkle over vegetables to add flavor without adding salt, add to browned ground beef or turkey, or use in marinades or rubs.
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OREGANO
Oregano is high in antioxidants, particularly due to elevated levels of phenolic acids and flavonoids. Additionally, oregano has antimicrobial properties. The health and healing qualities of oregano are so powerful that in the Philippines, the herb is used primarily as a medicinal plant, rather than for flavoring food.
HOW TO USE IT
Sprinkle over pizza or add to pasta sauce; season poultry, rice, or meaty vegetables, such as eggplant and mushrooms.
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ONION POWDER
Onions have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. They also have powerful anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, and they can relieve congestion. Onion powder is quite aromatic, improving any recipe that calls for even the slightest onion flavor. Even when you’ve got fresh onions in a dish, a bit of powder can further kick up the flavor.
HOW TO USE IT
Sprinkle on mixed veggies, beef, chicken, fish, or even scrambled eggs; use to season soups, stews, chili, or sauces.
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CAYENNE
Cayenne is valuable to your digestive system, heart, and circulatory system. It also has been shown to increase the effectiveness of other herbs and supplements when taken in conjunction with them. In addition, cayenne pepper may increase the body’s heat production (thermogenesis) and speed up metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. questions
HOW TO USE IT
Spice up scrambled eggs, tuna, or chicken salad; make chicken breasts (or anything meaty) spicy with a dash or so.
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