The Spice of Life!

Spices and Herbs contain incredible properties that are so good for us. They can be used in nearly any recipe to increase the amount of nutrients, minerals and vitamins our food includes whilst also adding to its taste appeal!

I use herbs and spices everyday in my salads, smoothies and healthy creations!

Here are a few of my favourite Herbs and Spices and why I love using them so much!!

Turmeric – I take Turmeric everyday, it really is fantastic and can benefit the body in so many ways! It improves the function of insulin-producing cells, making it great for diabetics to use. It neutralizes free radicals in the body responsible for inflammation of joints. Other benefits include increasing the metabolism, immune booster, natural antiseptic and helps to heal wounds!

Garlic – High in Manganese, B6 and VitC, Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic (especially great for colds!) Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Cayenne Pepper – This is rich in Potassium, Manganese and VitA. Cayenne improves circulation and reduces blood pressure as well as working on the digestive system to remove toxins from the body. It is also used in most creams to help treat Psoriasis.

Oregano – High in Magnesium, Calcium and Iron, Oregano helps clear parasites from the body, combats bacterial infections and is a very powerful anti-oxidant. It also helps promote the flow of bile in our bodies making foods high in fat easier to digest!

Ginger – High in VitE, Ginger helps promote the absorption of nutrients into our bodies. It helps reduce inflammation and the pain caused by migraines. It is both anti-fungal and antiseptic and aids in reducing nausea.

Basil- High in Vitamin K- which helps strengthen bones, Basil contains essential oils (limonene and citronellol) with are both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. It also helps to detoxify the liver and promote eye health.

Mint– Rich in VitA, VitC and Folate, this smells and tastes amazing (or I think so!) It is great for boosting energy, reducing menstrual cramps. Other benefits include soothing the digestive tract so helping calm IBS symptoms and fighting aches and pains within the body.

There are many many more incredible spices and herbs you can include in your daily foods, the above is just an example for you to really see just how important they are for our bodies to function at their highest and to continue to be the healthiest version of ourselves!

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About the Author Gemma Marie Llewellyn

I am the Head Coach and Nutritional Specialist at Evo. I have a huge determination and focus to help empower men and women in fitness and to encourage us to support and champion each other. I have always been extremely passionate about fitness and helping others so being a trainer was the most natural step for me to take. I dedicate my time training people using the best functional skills and tools that give them the body and confidence they have been searching for. To me, good nutrition is not something you have to do, it is what your body deserves in order for you to live life fully energised and uplifted. It is important to me to educate clients in healthy sustainable eating. Well-being is of the body, health and mind and I help develop clients in all areas. I believe that with the right direction this lifestyle is fun and the benefits – unbelievably rewarding!