Spices for Health

For years we have used herbs and spices to flavor our food, but now there are even more reasons to season. Aside from making food taste great, herbs and spices may actually be good for our health.

Spices for health.com ‐ That is McCormick’s new website focusing on the new research surrounding the health benefits associated with consuming certain herbs and spices. The website has information on their “Super 7” spices, tips on incorporating spices into your meals and snacks, recipes, research, and more.

Spices and herbs are surprisingly high in antioxidants, compounds shown to provide a range of health benefits including supporting our immune systems. This is because spices and herbs are derived from plants, sharing many of the same health benefits of fruits and vegetables. Plus, spices and herbs can help replace the salt shaker – helping you lower your sodium intake. Now that’s a healthy idea.

More Facts about Spices
Did you know that an herb is defined as the leaf of the plant while the other parts of the plant are considered a spice?

Super 7 ‐ the spices that are the most concentrated in antioxidants activity are cinnamon, ginger, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, thyme, and turmeric (found in yellow curry).

The good news is that all of the Super 7 spices are readily available in your local ShopRite. Plus, they are easy to incorporate into your meals and snacks.

Here are a few ideas:

• Cinnamon: sprinkle onto your morning bowl of oatmeal or top a non‐fat latte or cappuccino
  
• Ginger: add some ginger to hot or iced tea or add a dash to enhance flavor of vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes.
  
• Oregano: Add to jarred tomato sauce to enhance flavor or sprinkle onto an ordinary grilled cheese sandwich to “spice” it up.
  
• Red Pepper: Sprinkle over any finished dish such as pizza, pasta, soup, or eggs to add some heat.
  
• Rosemary: a delicious rub for roasted chicken or even on roasted and mashed potatoes
  
• Thyme: Dress up seafood by sprinkling it with thyme or even use atop steamed or sautéed vegetables
  
• Yellow Curry: Mix with plain yogurt as a healthy and flavorful spread on a grilled vegetable or chicken sandwich.

For information and tips on spices, herbs and health, visit McCormick’s website, www.spicesforhealth.com

For more tips, information and healthy recipes, visit the health and wellness section of ShopRite.com