Reason to season…

When you hear the word "antioxidants," what foods come to mind? Blueberries? Pomegranates? How about cinnamon, ginger, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, thyme and yellow curry?

Spices and herbs make food taste great. You already know that. And you're probably aware of how they can help you eat healthier by cutting down on salt, fat and sugar when cooking. Now there's emerging evidence that these kitchen essentials may help protect your health. With each pinch, dash and spoonful, spices and herbs can help boost the antioxidant power of practically everything on your plate.

So what exactly are these things called antioxidants and why should you care? Antioxidants are extraordinary workhorses in our bodies. Studies suggest they provide a range of benefits, including giving our immune system a boost. They also appear to reduce inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a first step in heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other chronic disease.

Preliminary studies indicate that spices and herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may hold tremendous potential in promoting good health. Other studies suggest spices and herbs may help curb your hunger and boost your metabolism – which might make it easier for you to manage your weight.

As I have said before and I will keep saying it from time to time – go to your neighborhood spice shop, walk in and the aroma will put you in a happy place and the options are endless!  There are also a lot of web sites to look at which is always helpful, but unfortunately you don’t get the aroma effect!