Stop inflammation! 4 spices your body needs

Understanding inflammation in the body

Inflammation is our body's natural response to aggression (infection, injury). However, chronic low-grade inflammation can promote the onset of many diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. That's why it's so important to modulate this inflammation by adopting a healthy lifestyle and eating anti-inflammatory foods.

Spices: real natural anti-inflammatories

Some spices are particularly rich in bioactive compounds, such as curcuminoids, gingerols and capsaicinoids, which exert a powerful anti-inflammatory action.

• Turmeric: Turmeric, the main spice in curry, is renowned for its curcumin content, a powerful anti-inflammatory. Numerous studies have demonstrated its efficacy in the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.

• Ginger: Ginger contains gingerols, compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is often used to relieve muscle and joint pain.

• Cinnamon: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Black pepper: Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, increases the bioavailability of curcumin, boosting its anti-inflammatory action.

How can you incorporate anti-inflammatory spices into your diet?

To reap the benefits of anti-inflammatory spices, simply add them to your daily dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Turmeric milk, also known as "golden milk": Mix almond or coconut milk with turmeric, black pepper and a little honey for a comforting, anti-inflammatory hot drink.
• Marinades: Use a blend of anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, ginger, black pepper) to marinate your meat, fish or vegetables before cooking.
• Soups and curries: Add spices generously to your soups and curries to make them real bombs of flavor and health.
• Salads: Season your salads with a blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar and anti-inflammatory spices.