In a recent article in MindBodyGreen.com, Dr. Amy Shah extolled the benefits of five ancient foods. Dr. Shah uses both modern medical practices and the techniques of Eastern medicine. She encourages her patients to take advantage of the benefits of a number of powerhouse foods now proven by scientific research.
Here are five foods she recommends. People have been consuming them for thousands of years, and now studies are showing how important they are for human health. These foods will support your digestion, lower chronic inflammation, and balance your hormones. Just eat these every week:
1. Cinnamon and pepper – These spices are a sweet and savory addition to your meals. Use them at least three times weekly to help digestion, lessen bloating, and manage stress.
Pepper is an antibacterial, rich in vitamins and minerals. It stimulates your taste buds, signals the production of hydrochloric acid and improves digestion. Cinnamon is one of the richest sources of antioxidants available. It reduces inflammation and lowers blood sugar and triglyceride levels.
2. Turmeric – The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It also aids in digestion.
3. Chia seeds – These little seeds sustain energy and offers plenty of omega-3s, particularly help for people who do not eat fish. Omega-3s are important for mental and behavioral health. Chia lowers inflammation and helps with diabetes.
4. Ginger – This spice has been used medicinally for over 5,000 years. It has gingerol, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It aids digestion, muscle pain and cognition. You can grate it into a variety of dishes, add it to smoothies and green drinks, and drink it in tea. Ginger lowers blood sugar.
5. Fenugreek seeds – Fenugreek is helpful for constipation, reflux and lowering blood sugar. New mothers sometimes use it to boost breast milk supply. The best way to enjoy fenugreek seeds is to sprout and eat them.
