Have you tried a sprinkle of cinnamon on your oatmeal? Oregano on your salad? Ginger in your tea? Spicing your food is one of the easiest ways to enhance flavor without adding calories, sodium or fat, and it’s not only your waistline that will benefit from the zest. Seasonings and spices deliciously provide a variety of health benefits – from boosting immunity to controlling blood sugar. So whether you’re looking to spice up your food, ease a specific medical ailment or just create a culinary masterpiece, check out why perking up your favorite dish can satisfy more than just your palate:

    Chili pepper. According to one study, this fiery spice is gaining popularity and is especially favored by millennials – for good reasons. Chili peppers are rich in vitamin A, and they can reduce pain, fight free radicals, lower cholesterol, clear congestion and boost immunity. Contrary to popular myth, they’ve been shown to fight stomach ulcers, not cause them, so don’t shy away from adding some heat to your favorite Mexican, Thai or Italian dishes. Capsaicin, the powerful compound in chiles, can rev up your metabolism and increase your body’s fat burning abilities.

    Garlic. Did you know that garlic is an excellent cold-fighter, boosts heart health (by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides) and has anti-inflammatory properties? Studies have shown that garlic protects your blood vessels from oxidative stress and inflammation, so be sure to add at least half a clove’s worth to your meals daily. As a good source of selenium, flavonoids and sulfur-containing nutrients, garlic deserves a valuable place on your plate. Try roasting a few cloves – the aroma alone will attract your family to the kitchen!

    Ginger. Ginger is known to settle an upset stomach and even morning sickness, but now it’s also linked to reducing pain. Gingerol, the potent chemical in ginger, helps decrease inflammation and blocks nerve pathways that process pain. Aside from steeping ginger in your tea, add it to your vegetable stir-fry to give your palate an extra zing.

    Spice up your life. Spices can turn a blasé dish into an explosion of flavors in your mouth, with the bonus side effect of boosting your health. Tip: Shake the salt from the salt shakers and instead, add an array of spices and seasonings. Just leave them on the table for your family to experiment with and enjoy. By using 3D-NLS You can find more of the beneficial spices, and to enjoy them.