HEALTH + WELLNESS
of people are using herbal remedies
along with prescribed medications to
treat underlying medical conditions.
In 2008, U.S. consumers spent $4.8
billion on herbal supplements.
While it is clear that some herbs and
spices may be effective medicines,
we are still unsure about dosages and
potential interactions with commonly
prescribed medications. Analyses of
herbal supplements have shown differences between what is listed and
what is actually in the bottle. Some of
these supplements have been found
to be contaminated with metals and
microorganism. An investigation by
the United States Accountability Office
reported in 2010 showed that nearly
all the herbal supplements tested
found traces of lead, mercury, arsenic
and other contaminants in levels that
exceeded standards of acceptable daily
intake. Among the metal containing
products tested, 95 percent were sold
by U.S. companies and on websites.
The FDA is cracking down on many
of the companies producing herbal
supplements. With enhanced inspections of facilities and strict enforcement, it is believed that the quality and
safety of supplements will improve.
Until then, try using nutrient-packed
fresh and dried herbs and spices in your
foods to boost your health. Buy fresh
or organic formulations when possible.
Store the herbs and spices in airtight containers to keep them potent and fresh.
Listed below are a few of the healthiest
spices and herbs and their claims. Incorporate a variety of these spices and herbs
into your daily meals to maximize their
benefits and your health.
CINNAMON
Available animal trials on the properties of cinnamon strongly suggest that
it has hypoglycemic properties and might help control blood-sugar levels
in Type 2 diabetics. Some limited data suggests that cinnamon also reduces
LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels. It is easy to
sprinkle ΒΌ teaspoon of cinnamon on cereals and oatmeal. It can be mixed
with maple syrup or honey and can be added to yogurt. Adding cinnamon
to high carbohydrate meals may reduce postprandial blood sugar levels.
MARCH 2014
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