Have you ever thought about how the simplest ingredients in your kitchen can transform not just your meals, but your entire day? I’m talking about spices – those little jars of vibrant flavors that do more than just tickle your taste buds.
For a long time, there’s been a focus on the importance of breakfast – you’ve probably heard the saying, “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper.” But what if we shift that perspective? What if any meal, be it breakfast on a leisurely weekend or a hearty dinner, could be the cornerstone of your day?
Personally, I’ve found joy in experimenting with spices at different times of the day. Whether it’s a spiced latte that brings a sense of warmth to my mornings or a delicately flavored dish that rounds off my evening, the magic lies in the versatility of these natural wonders.
Let me share a little secret with you: my favorite blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron. It’s not just about their tantalizing aroma or the depth of flavor they add to a dish. These spices are tiny powerhouses of health benefits, each carrying its own set of brain-boosting and wellness-promoting properties.
Imagine starting your day, or perhaps concluding it, with a beverage or meal enriched with these spices. For instance, on weekends, when I savor my breakfast, a spiced latte becomes my go-to. A sprinkle of these spices in a glass of steamed milk with a shot of organic espresso – it’s not just a drink; it’s an experience.
Believe it or not, spices are some of the most underused tools for improving brain performance and mental health. And because they are so easy to use, they are some of the simplest brain-health tools at your disposal.
This season, try adding some of these spices to your menu and see how much their benefits can to your holiday cheer 🙂
1. Saffron – nicknamed the “sunshine spice” for its antidepressant qualities.I first discovered the sunshine spice a few years ago when I moved to Sweden. It was found in the seasonal lussekatt buns that my neighbours and friends introduced me to for St. Lucia (13 December).
Honestly, it was a match made in heaven. Today, I add it to all my meals… because it is a miracle spice.
It is not only an antioxidant, but saffron has also been shown to improve memory and learning ability, sleep quality, and appetite regulation (which is definitely something I need around the holidays!). I keep saffron in a little vial and take it everywhere I go.
Now, as I said, I add it to everything – but if you are looking for something to bring the spice to the forefront this holiday season, you can try this garlicky saffron rice recipe.
2. Turmeric.
You may know turmeric for its distinctive yellow color and earthy taste, but it is more than just a pretty flavor. Turmeric has been used in medicine for more than 4,000 years to treat a wide variety of health concerns including skin issues, upper respiratory tract disorders, joint pain, digestive problems, and more.
Like saffron, turmeric is also an antioxidant, meaning it protects our brains against oxidative stress. But its main active compound, called curcumin, has also been shown to have neurologically beneficial properties that can encourage neuron growth and fight Alzheimer’s disease.Turmeric is used in a lot of curries, but if that is not your favorite, you can try this creamy turmeric chicken recipe – just the photo is making my mouth water!
3. Cinnamon.
Cinnamon is another super spice, acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agent, as well as enhancing your focus and memory. It is usually found in a lot of sugary Christmas treats, but if you want to get your cinnamon fix without the carbs, you can try this cinnamon tea recipe.
4. Cardamom.
Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine (say those five times fast!), is a crucial vitamin for a healthy nervous system and immune system – and cardamom is full of it.
And not only that, but cardamom is also packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that protect the brain from free radical damage, as well as neurodegenerative disorders like dementia. As well, cardamom is another “sunshine” spice, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression.
This cardamom honey chicken recipe is a delicious way to get the spice into your holiday menu!
4. Rosemary.
Did you know that just sniffing some rosemary can improve not just your concentration, but also your mood? (I think that’s pretty cool – but that’s just my two scents. Lol!)
You may use rosemary all the time in your cooking, but don’t take it for granted! Researchers have found that even the small amount used in your meal can help protect older brains against cognitive decline and even improve the quality of their cognition.
I absolutely love rosemary on my potatoes – so I would recommend trying out this rosemary roasted potato recipe!
5. Oregano.
You know oregano as the spice that is everywhere in Italian sauces, but it is also – say it with me, now – an effective antioxidant!
As versatile as it is in taste, it is also in its health benefits: oregano is shown to improve the health of your gut, your brain, and your immune system, in addition to boosting your mood and your motivation.
Plus, researchers saw an increase in alpha-1 brain waves when introducing oregano into the diet. This is the kind of brain activity associated with a relaxed or sleepy state. This means that oregano may be helpful for relaxing and reducing anxiety.
Keep warm this winter with a bowl of chunky tomato oregano soup!
Which of these spices will you use to keep your mind sharp and your spirit bright these holidays?
Let me know – I would love to be a part of your health journey!
Make today your masterpiece!
Florina
PS: I wish you and your loved ones a fantastic Christmas if you celebrate it! ❤
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