How Common Spices Can Protect Against Heart Disease and the Ravages of Aging

This study, published in the current issue of the Journal of Medicinal Foods, found a strong and direct correlation between the phenol content of common herbs and spices and their ability to inhibit glycation and the formation of AGE compounds, making them potent preventers of heart disease and premature aging.

 

The top 10 most potent herbs and spices are:

1. Turmeric (ground)

2. Cloves (ground)

3. Cinnamon (ground)

4. Ginger (ground)

5. Jamaican allspice (ground)

6. Oregano (ground)

7. Marjoram

8. Sage

9. Thyme

10.Gourmet Italian spice

 

This is not the first time scientists have declared culinary herbs and spices as potent anti-diabetic alternatives.

 

Cinnamon and cinnamon extracts have previously been shown to effectively lower blood sugar. As a matter of fact, cinnamon was found to increase glucose metabolism 20-fold, in one such study!

 

Interestingly, cinnamon lowers your blood sugar by acting on several different levels. It slows the emptying of your stomach to reduce sharp rises in blood sugar following meals, and improves the effectiveness, or sensitivity, of insulin. It also enhances your antioxidant defenses.

 

Researchers have even gone so far as to say cinnamon could play the role of an insulin substitute in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

 

‘SPICE UP YOUR LIFE’ Tea

Mix the following in a Cafetiere (plunge pot) and drink in the morning and afternoon

1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon of each:

 

• Turmeric (May support Liver, Anti-inflammatory, Pain killer, anti-carcinogen)

• ​Cinnamon (Blood Sugar balance: can support energy, mood, weight control)

• Ginger: (Can support digestion, nausea, inflammation)