HERBS AND SPICES WITH BENEFITS

SAGE- Finds show that sage can improve your mood, increase your alertness and sharpen your concentration. It contains rosmarinic acid. This polyphenol fights hormones that are linked to anxiety and reduced cognitive function. Pick fresh over dried for maximum benefits. SUGGESTED USE: Sweet and Savory Dish Toss 1 peeled cubed butternut squash with 1 sliced red onion, 2 Tbsp. chopped sage, and 2 Tbsp. olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees F until squash is soft(about 25 to 30 minutes) CAYENNE PEPPER- Capsaicin is a compound that may fight high cholesterol by breaking up the waxy plaque compounds that clog arties. Capsaicin is ground in whole or ground red chile peppers. It also lowers blood pressure by encouraging blood vessels to loosen up and relax. Suggested use: Whisk 2 eggs with 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper and a pinch of salt and scramble in a pan with 1 tsp olive oil. Top with diced avocado or a little plain Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast. PARSLEY: 6 sprigs of fresh parsley is more than a day's worth of vitamin K. Certain proteins are activated by vitamin K. These proteins help calcium bind to your bone tissue. By doing that it strengthens your bones. If you use dried parsley, you will still get vitamin K, but less of it. SUGGESTED USE: For an Easy Lunch Combine 1/2 cup chopped parsley with 3 oz cubed chicken breast, 1/4 cup chopped cucumber and tomato, 2 Tbsp. feta cheese, 2 tsp olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. Then stuff the mixture into a whole-wheat pita. TURMERIC Contains curcumin. Curcumin is an antioxidant that may help relieve joint pain by fighting inflammation. One study found it was as effective as ibuprofen to ease knee pain. Try to consume a teaspoon of ground turmeric regularly. SUGGESTED USE: Hot Cocoa In a saucepan, simmer 1 cup of almond milk, 1 tsp of ground turmeric, coconut oil and honey and 1/2 ground ginger for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.