by Oksana Love
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People have been using herbs and spices for thousands of years. Interestingly, many spices are used not just for their taste and color, but also for their healing powers.
Many spices contain compounds called antioxidants. These are substances that protect cells in our bodies from damage and keep them healthy. For example, when we leave an apple slice on our plate, it will get brown after a while because of a process called oxidation. However, if we first dip the apple slice in lemon or pineapple juice (both of these juices contain antioxidants), the apple will stay fresh and not change color. Oxidation can affect our cells by causing them to age quickly. They can also impact our DNA, leading to serious health diseases such as heart problems or even cancer.
Spices are one of the best sources of natural antioxidants. The way antioxidants work depends on the chemicals inside them. The main chemicals in antioxidants are flavonoids and phenolic acids. These can keep free radicals from hurting our cells. The most common spices that have high antioxidants are cloves, peppermint, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and saffron. Spices have more antioxidants in them than fruit and vegetables.
Although spices don’t take up a lot of space in your pantry they are important to stay healthy. Don’t forget to add spices (antioxidants) to your dinner plate!
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