Spices, according to experts, provide more than just flavor to food, as they hold a host of benefits that may hold the key to living a healthier, longer life.
Spices provide much-needed benefits to the brain, improving memory recall, focus, energy levels, and cognitive function.
Dr. Brandon Crawford, a neurologist who specializes in brain health--
Black pepper
Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that improves memory and cognitive function by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Piperine has also been shown to help the body absorb other nutrients, from dietary and supplement sources.
Crawford explained that black pepper and turmeric can be combined, as “piperine, the active compound in black pepper, can enhance the absorption of curcumin (from turmeric) by up to 2000%.” He revealed that this combination not only increases the benefits of curcumin for the brain, but also helps improve the digestion process and absorption of nutrients, which indirectly supports cognitive health.
Cinnamon
According to the Washington Post, a daily dose of cinnamon may help prevent diabetes.
Cinnamon can be easily incorporated into smoothies, savory dishes, yogurt, coffee, or tea, and helps balance blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance.
Crawford points out that stabilizing blood sugar is crucial to improving brain function throughout the day and preventing neurodegenerative diseases from developing in the future.
Ginger
Ginger has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for thousands of years. Ginger contains gingerol, which has been shown to have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
"Ginger can help improve cognitive function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It also helps balance neurotransmitters, which is essential for focus and cognitive agility," Crawford said.
Ginger neutralizes free radicals that cause oxidative stress and contribute to cell damage and aging.
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also enhance the body's ability to burn calories, making this type of spice a blessing for dieters.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg contains the compound myristicin, which is known for its neuroprotective properties that enhance memory recall and prevent the deterioration of neural pathways.
“Nutmeg also has mood-enhancing effects that can contribute to a more focused and positive mental state,” Crawford noted.
It is noteworthy that nutmeg is rich in antioxidants, which helps the body neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, and the imbalance between the production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells and tissues. Nutmeg has been proven to benefit the body in other ways, as according to the Healthline website, it enhances sexual desire, improves blood sugar, and enhances heart health.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Known as the “gold” of the plant kingdom, turmeric supports liver detoxification and acts as a natural pain reliever.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative damage, curcumin protects the brain from stressors that lead to cognitive decline. Crawford explained, “Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in the brain.”
Additionally, turmeric has been shown to relieve symptoms of indigestion, reduce the risk of heart disease, fight depression, prevent cancer, improve memory, and reduce pain from arthritis and other conditions.