With the fall chill in the air come the fall spices in your latte. As many of you retreat to your kitchens for warmth this season, try experimenting with some of these spices. They’ll tickle your taste buds and boost your immune system too.
1. Cinnamon
This bittersweet holiday spice goes in everything from eggnog to cookies. Next time you’re enjoying its fragrance, bask in the fact that cinnamon also acts to reduce blood sugar, great for those with diabetes – a contributor to gum disease. Cinnamon also contains a major boost of manganese, dietary fiber and iron.
2. Turmeric
While you’re probably most accustomed to having turmeric as part of curry powder, don’t be afraid to use it by itself or in conjunction with some cumin and cardamom. Turmeric is a bright yellow and contains curcumin, an incredibly strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Curcumin has been linked to a number of other amazing benefits, including the inhibition of tumor growth, a treatment for cystic fibrosis and rheumatoid arthritis, improved liver function, and improvement of the disabling cognitive effects associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Because of its strong anti-inflammatory properties Turmeric can help reduce swelling associated with gum disease.
3. Rosemary
Fantastic on a fresh ciabatta loaf, or a roast chicken, rosemary also boasts some powerful anti-aging properties. It has also been used to stimulate the immune, digestive, and circulatory systems. Rosemary’s ability to increase blood flow to the head and brain has led many to use it as a way to improve concentration and oral health.
4. Ginger
Fantastic in cookies, and even on top of a bowl of oatmeal, ginger has the antioxidant boost of a whole cup of spinach. Ginger has the ability to fight even the worst of upset stomachs with its anti-nausea properties, and can also act as a pain reliever by thinning blood. For swollen gums, or an upset stomach caused by a dental procedure, don’t hesitate to add a little extra ginger to your meal.
For more information on maintaining your oral health this season, get in touch with our Lake Forest dental office at (847)234-0517 We gladly serve patients from all over the Chicago Metro area.