Health benefits of spice powder
Powdered spices such as turmeric, cinnamon and chilli are prized not only for their taste, but also for their numerous health benefits. Particularly valued for their health properties are:
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Turmeric, which contains curcumin, giving it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
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Ceylon cinnamon is known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels
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Chilli may help to improve metabolism
Incorporating these spices into your daily diet can provide health benefits such as improving digestion, supporting the immune system and potentially reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Risks associated with powdered spices
Despite these benefits, there are also some risks associated with using powdered spices. One of the main concerns is the risk of adulteration. Unscrupulous manufacturers may add other substances to spices, such as starch or even colourings, to increase their weight and volume, which reduces their quality and can pose health risks. In addition, spices may contain pesticides, the limits of which are strictly set in the European Union and are among the strictest in the world. Come to think of it, organic spices are the best choice.
Choosing safe powdered spices
To maximise the health benefits and minimise the risks, it is crucial to carefully choose the sources from which our spices are sourced. Here are some tips on how to choose healthy powdered spices:
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Trusted retailers: Buy spices from reputable suppliers who can provide information about the origin of the spices and their composition. Avoid buying spices from unreliable sources, especially those sold in bulk without proper labelling.
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Quality certifications: Look for manufacturers with food safety certification. Also look out for certified organic spices, often referred to as BIO, especially when you are consuming spices for their health benefits.
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Spice blends: it is worth choosing blends without unnecessary additives, consisting of spices and herbs, and a reasonable amount of salt, sugar - enough to make a quality spice blend.
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Storage: store spices in tightly sealed containers, in a cool, dark place to minimise degradation of their health and flavour properties.
In summary, powdered spices can be a healthy addition to your diet, provided they are from trusted sources and stored properly. When choosing spices, it is worth paying attention to their quality and origin, which will help to fully exploit their health potential and avoid potential risks.