Have you started thinking about your holiday meals? Party foods you want to prepare? Spices develop the flavor profile of your food but did you know that many spices are good for your health? The emerging science is fascinating …especially when you consider that spices have antioxidant and protectiveproperties.

Try these four spices:

Cinnamon: Did you know that one teaspoon of cinnamon contains as many antioxidants as a ½ cup of blueberries? Cinnamon also contains polyphenols, which are compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels. I like to put my favorite spices in shakers just like salt and pepper and keep them handy. I sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal and hot chocolate. How do you use it?

I was in Boston for the American Dietetic Association Food & Nutrition Conference and enjoyed a sweet yet savory California Pinot Infused Fig Chutney that is perfect for the holidays. Made with California figs, Pinot Noir wine and cinnamon sticks plus a couple other ingredients, this chutney is easy to make ahead. Serve it along side turkey, pork or ham or spread it on a baguette and pair it with cheese for an appetizer. It would pair nicely with Gorgonzola, Cheddar, Manchego or Camembert.

Thyme: Ancient Greeks burned thyme as incense in their temples, believing it was a source of courage. It was also used to ward off nightmares in the Middle Ages.  So what else can this super spice do?  It potentially promotes good heart health by reducing cell damage from free radicals.

Turmeric: What do you like on your hot dog or favorite sandwich? Did you say mustard? Do you buy the traditional bright yellow mustard? If you have a container of yellow mustard in the fridge, look at the ingredients for the word “turmeric”. The golden yellow color in turmeric comes from curcumin, which is the naturally occurring phytonutrient.

Recent studies have led researches to consider that this golden yellow curcumin compound may help stop the development of harmful brain plaque or amyloid plaque tied to Alzheimer’s disease.

Oregano: Studies on oregano suggest that it has antimicrobial properties so if you’re making pizza for friends and family who have gathered to watch those holiday movies, sprinkle it on.

Remember, the research on spices is not meant for you to think of them or use them as a single treatment item. They are to be included as part of a healthy way of eating in amounts of ½ teaspoon to teaspoon per serving for example.

Spices need to be stored away from heat and light in a dark drawer or cabinet. If you want some tasty recipes that contain these super spices, go to spicesforhealth.com

For more information, listen to this week’s podcast below.

Listen to this week’s podcast