Stomach health is partly about the plate and as such, several spices can help you naturally maintain a flatter stomach and better digestion. Here are 4 spices to adopt, and the opinion of our nutritionist, Alexandra Murcier.
Adding goodness to your plate is sometimes as simple as adding a pinch of spices to a dish. As such, some have interesting anti-inflammatory and digestive properties to maintain a healthy stomach on a daily basis and avoid bloating. Here are 4 spices to have at home and the opinion of our nutritionist.
Ginger
Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol, which have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the gut, ginger can help relieve symptoms of digestive discomfort and bloating (by helping to relax the muscles of the digestive tract) thereby contributing to a flatter stomach. “Ginger is very useful for all digestion. confirms our expert, “it is even recommended for pregnant women who have poor digestion, so we can go there without any problem.”
Turmeric
This pretty yellow powder has antimicrobial properties that help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. However, a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for overall digestive health and can prevent problems such as gas and bloating. Curcumin can also improve metabolic processes, helping the body burn calories more efficiently and therefore aiding weight loss. “For me, the curcuma is the most anti-inflammatory spice available in your kitchen. But as it is a question of consuming it regularly for a better effect, I often advise my patients to also take it in the form of food supplements, because unfortunately not all dishes are suitable for it.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Stable blood sugar levels can reduce cravings and prevent overeating, which promotes weight management and helps maintain a flatter stomach. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent that activates digestion while facilitating the breakdown of food. In short, it is also a useful spice, which goes well with many desserts.
Garlic
Garlic's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. This can ease digestive discomfort and contribute to a healthier intestinal environment. It has also been shown to increase metabolic rate, which may aid weight management. “Garlic is also a compound to consume regularly, but it is less well tolerated by many people. supports Alexandra Murcier. It is therefore not necessarily recommended on a daily basis.
NO to diets, YES to WW!
Natural “helping hand” spices, to vary dishes
To this set of 4 spices, the nutritionist happily adds two other references which are excellent antioxidants: chili pepper, in all its forms as well as black cumin, which is also called nigella seeds. Or 6 spices or condiments to add to your plate as you wish to satisfy your stomach. She still adds a precaution:
“Spices are used sparingly in dishes. These are therefore ingredients that will “contribute” to our health thanks to their anti-inflammatory side, for example, but these remain in small quantities. Adding a little spice is not going to counteract the fact of having a totally unbalanced diet or have the same effect as taking anti-inflammatories in tablets if you need them. In both cases, it will neither be effective nor concentrated enough.”
On the other hand, adding and varying spices daily, on your plate and in your different dishes is an additional asset for maintaining good health. “And what's more, they allow you to enjoy more flavor without having to add saltwhich is also excellent for cardiovascular health. So let's go fill your spice rack today!
Slide: Healthy spices: a short guide to healing spices
