from our own Candace Becker

Here's a little info about spices. Enjoy!

Let’s get spicey!
Since the dawn of time, humans have used spices for many, many reasons, not just to flavor food. For instance, did you know that the ancient Egyptians, circa 2600 BCE, used cinnamon, cassia and cumin for embalming, medicine as well as food preservation. Ancient Mesopotamia tablets mention mustard, thyme, and coriander used in cooking and healing. Eastern Indian cultures have used turmeric, cardamom, and black pepper for Ayurvedic medicine and religious rituals. For centuries, Chinese culture has used ginger and star anise for digestive and respiratory ailments.
What’s your favorite spice?
■ Salt
Benefit: Salt (sodium) is essential for nerve and muscle function and helps balance body fluids.
Use It Wisely: Use sea salt or Himalayan salt sparingly to enhance flavor — a little goes a long way.
Caution: Too much salt can raise blood pressure and strain the heart. Limit processed foods high in sodium.
■ Black Pepper
Benefit: Known as the 'King of Spices', it enhances digestion and increases nutrient absorption — especially of turmeric.
Use It Wisely: Add freshly ground pepper to almost any savory dish for flavor and metabolic benefits.
Caution: Excess may irritate the stomach or throat — use moderation if you have acid reflux.
■ Cinnamon
Benefit: May help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol profiles.
Use It Wisely: Sprinkle on oatmeal, yogurt, or coffee — just ¼ teaspoon per day adds flavor and antioxidants.
Caution: Too much Cassia cinnamon (the common grocery store type) can cause liver irritation. Choose Ceylon cinnamon for safer daily use.
■ Turmeric
Benefit: Rich in curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that may help reduce joint pain, support brain health, and lower the risk of heart disease.
Use It Wisely: Add ½ teaspoon to soups, eggs, or tea. Combine with black pepper — it boosts absorption up to 2000%!
Caution: People taking blood thinners or with gallbladder issues should use turmeric carefully or check with a healthcare provider first.
■ Ginger
Benefit: Eases nausea, supports digestion, and reduces inflammation.
Use It Wisely: Fresh or powdered — add to stir-fries, smoothies, or tea.
Caution: Can mildly lower blood sugar and blood pressure; use care if on related medications.
■ Paprika
Benefit: Offers antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lutein that support eye, heart, and immune health.
Use it Wisely: Some types contain capsaicin, which may help reduce inflammation.
Caution: Large amounts can irritate the stomach in sensitive individuals. Those with acid reflux or nightshade sensitivity should use sparingly.
■ Garlic
Benefit: Supports heart health, may lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, and has natural antimicrobial properties.
Use It Wisely: Crush fresh garlic and let it sit for 10 minutes before cooking — this activates its beneficial compound, allicin.
Caution: May thin blood and interact with medications. Avoid large doses before surgery.
TRY THIS!
■ Simple Anti-Inflammatory Tea Blend Mix equal parts of turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger, with a pinch of black pepper. Steep 1 teaspoon in hot water for 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon to taste.
Nourish Your Body, Honor Your Temple
“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
This newsletter has been created to provide brief health information and is not intended to diagnose or treat. Please contact your healthcare provider for further information. Created with assistance from ChatGPT and Candace Becker, APRN.