Whether you’re looking to give your dish a spicy kick or build from an aromatic base, chances are you’ll be reaching for your spice rack as you prepare your next meal. But flavor aside, the spices you choose can actually be boosting your health, adding to your daily vitamin and mineral intake, helping lower cholesterol or boost your immune system.
Next time you’re in the kitchen, consider adding one of these nine health-boosting spices to your recipe:
Black Pepper
Black pepper helps your digestive system by moving your food along your digestive tract quickly and smoothly, which is good for colon health. This spice’s health boost is thanks to piperine, the compound that gives it its zesty bite. Piperine may also be able to prevent breast cancer tumors from developing, according to a study by the University of Michigan Cancer Center. It may reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis, easing pain and stiffness in sufferers.
Chili Pepper
Chili pepper is good for more than spicing up your dish. According to U.S. News & World Report, these peppers are rich in vitamin A, and they have been shown to ease pain, drop bad cholesterol levels, clear up congestion and improve your immunity. Looking to trim down your waistline? Capsaicin, which is found in chiles, gives your metabolism a boost and helps your body bust fat.