Temple Care
By Barbara Day
Are there specific spices that help prevent disease?
Yes. I could write a book about this topic, but here’s the short version. Some spices contain important antioxidants properties. An antioxidant helps to prevent free radicals oxidative damage which can cause cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, obesity and autoimmune diseases. Spices that may help prevent cancer: garlic, ginger, turmeric, rosemary, etc. Spices that may help prevent heart disease: cinnamon, garlic, ginger, oregano, thyme, etc. Spices that may help control diabetes: cinnamon, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, coriander, etc. Cinnamon helps to increase insulin sensitivity which may be effective in treating Type II Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome. Spices that may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease: turmeric, rosemary, ginger, garlic. Spices that may influence obesity: chilies, garlic, fenugreek. Spices that may help control autoimmune diseases: bay leaf, black pepper, garlic, ginger, green tea, oregano, rosemary, thyme, turmeric. Superstar spices include: cinnamon, garlic, turmeric, and ginger. I am a post-menopausal woman. My physician suggested I use 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Always check with your physician if you plan to use large doses of spices in a prophylactic manner.
Barbara Day, M.S., R.D., C.N., is a Lifestyle Nutrition & Wellness Specialist and Southeast member. Do you have a question for Barbara? If so, e-mail it to: lgriffin@secc.org.