Too much bad cholesterol can wreak havoc on your overall health and leave you vulnerable to many diseases Chronic diseases. Excess cholesterol builds up in plaque on the artery walls putting you at risk of heart attack and many other chronic diseases such as stroke, Diabetes and High Blood Pressure. When you discover that you have high cholesterol through your lipid profile, you should immediately adopt sustainable lifestyle changes that can aid in cutting cholesterol and help you lead a healthy life. However, cholesterol is not your enemy and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is actually good for your health as it helps to remove bad cholesterol or LDL (low-density lipoprotein) from your body. (Also read: 5 foods to increase good cholesterol levels)
The good thing is that you don’t have to invest in fancy products to lower your cholesterol levels and the age-old Indian spices can help you a lot. Spices are a concentrated source of antioxidants that help protect your body from damage, and they’re easily available in your kitchen. In addition to the health benefits, they also bring a distinct flavor to your dishes.
“The right food has the power to cure all kinds of ailments. Indian kitchens are blessed with some of the finest herbs and spices that have a wide range of medical and health benefits. Supply your body with nutrition. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients can help you fight chronic diseases like cholesterol.Cholesterol can lead to heart disease if not taken care of in the first place. Essential spices commonly found in our kitchens can help control cholesterol to a large extent.Enriched with good antioxidants, Spices that help slow inflammation and tissue damage are results of high blood sugar and circulating fat,” says Mehvish Khan, Certified Diabetes and Nutrition Educator.
If you want to keep your cholesterol under control, check out these common kitchen condiments suggested by Khan.
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Turmeric is an ancient Ayurvedic spice that has numerous health benefits. It contains an active compound called curcumin. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are effective in treating health disorders like chronic pneumonia, pancreatitis, intestinal problems, heart disease risk, etc. Helps reduce cholesterol levels including LDL which is bad cholesterol for the body.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known as a wonderful spice for treating heart disease. Moreover, it allows the blood to circulate well in the system and keeps the body free of internal blockage. Its antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties support natural insulin production and aid in lowering blood cholesterol. Cinnamon can be used in many dishes such as tea.
Black pepper
Black pepper is a household staple and can be sprinkled over any dish for an accent. However, besides being a delicious spice, it also has health benefits. It aids in breaking down fat cells, thus controlling cholesterol levels. In addition, the active ingredient piperine has significant antioxidant and antibacterial effects that help with digestion, lung infections, coughs and colds, etc.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek has amazing health benefits and is one of the main spices for cholesterol control. It contains several compounds known to slow the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines and liver. Methi or fenugreek seeds can be used in most Indian dishes and can help treat diabetes and control cholesterol.
Ajwain
Primarily used as a seasoning, Ajwain not only adds delicious flavor to dishes, but also has medicinal potential. Ajwain seeds ensure regulation of good cholesterol levels and aid in lowering bad cholesterol. The fatty acids and fiber present in ajwain help maintain cholesterol levels. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used as an antiseptic and its antioxidant properties strengthen the body’s resistance to fight infections and contribute to the creation of good cholesterol in the body.
