With February bringing American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect time to heat things up at your table for two with these heart-healthy spices.
Nutrition Counseling
Healthy eating and proper nutrition play a big part in maintaining good health. Our registered dietitians work with you to set realistic and achievable goals.
Cayenne Pepper
Six to 10 times hotter than a jalapeno, cayenne pepper brings the heat to any meal. It is a healthy salt substitute and is rich in capsaicin, a chemical shown to reduce inflammation and promote vein health. Studies have found cayenne pepper may reduce the risk of cardiac death by 17%.
Cinnamon
Consuming ¾ teaspoon of cinnamon daily lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, two risk factors for heart disease. Supplementing with cinnamon for eight weeks or more has been shown to reduce high blood pressure in patients with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes.
Garlic
The characteristic taste and smell of garlic come from its sulfur-based compounds. Studies show garlic can reduce cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar. Aged garlic extract has been found to reduce soft plaque accumulation by as much as 80%.
Turmeric
Turmeric is rich in curcumin, a chemical that has been shown to reduce the chances of heart attack by 16% after coronary artery bypass surgery. Curcumin also lowers cholesterol and may protect against heart disease.
Ask the Experts
If you are looking for delicious ways to meet your nutritional needs, North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health outpatient dietitians can help. To learn more about nutritional counseling, visit nkch.org/Nutrition.
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