We need our spices to spice up our food. Indian foods, especially, can't do without a whole bunch of different spices to add different flavours and sharpness to it. But you should know that this is not the only job of spices. Take a good look at your spice cabinet containing a variety of spices; most of them are excellent for your heart health too. With this newfound admiration for spices, let us find out which spices you must add to your diet to prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases.
7 Spices To Add To Your Diet To Boost Heart Health:
Ginger
Healing Foods book by DK Publishing reveals the benefits of gingerol, an active compound found in ginger. "Gingerol has analgesic, sedative, antipyretic and antibacterial effects, and is full of antioxidants." In fact, some studies suggest that consuming enough ginger can get rid of 'bad' cholesterol, which is known to increase the risk of heart illnesses.
(Also Read: 9 Incredible Uses And Health Benefits Of Ginger)
Gingerol has antibacterial effects, and is full of antioxidants.
Photo Credit: iStock
Chili Pepper
Apart from adding spice to your food, chillli peppers also lend their immunity-boosting vitamin C content and certain properties that may keep blood pressure level in check.
Celery Seeds
Celery seeds are commonly used in the Mediterranean region. Usually added to herbal tea, celery seeds are known to combat inflammation and high blood pressure.
Cinnamon
We love to add cinnamon (dal chini) to special meals like biryani and chicken curry. Cinnamon has proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may protect us from various diseases, including heart-related issues.
Cardamom
Popularly known as elaichi in Indian households, there is quite a possibility that cardamom is used more to make tea than food! Its slightly pungent, slightly sweet flavour makes it a great taste enhancer. The spice is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, zinc and other nutrients that are known to prevent blood clots and improve heart health.
(Also Read: Follow These Expert Diet Tips To Keep Your Heart Healthy)
Cardamom is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron and zinc.
Garlic
Garlic is often advised to heart patients as it is loaded with anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties present in its compound - allicin. Eating garlic regularly may help lower cholesterol as well as blood sugar levels.
Mustard
As per a study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, adding mustard oil to your everyday diet could be great for heart health. Mustard seeds are rich in MUFA, which may regulate cholesterol level and blood fat levels, thereby, improving blood circulation.
Please note that these are not the only spices that are considered good for heart health. With hundreds of spice options around us, you'll find many more!
(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)