Spice up Your Life and Your Health Too

The smell of holiday spices wafting in the air signals Thanksgiving holiday season is near. Better health begins in the kitchen with winters warming spices, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and nutmeg. Their healing powers curb cravings and are sure to elevate your mood too.  It’s no surprise that Mother Nature has been using spices for thousands of years for healing and health.  

 Holiday spices change an ordinary dish into an extraordinary culinary experience. A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that many spices contain, ounce for ounce, dramatically higher antioxidant capacity than fruits & vegetables. Antioxidants help counteract the effect of free radicals, aid in the prevention of many diseases and contributes to optimal physical health. To get the maximum health benefits, choose organically grown spices. Conventional spices are often treated with chemicals and are irradiated. You will smell and taste the difference. 

From sweets to savory, seasoning your foods with these holiday spices will spice up your life and health too.  

Cinnamon is a sweet spice that infuses warmth and energy throughout your body. Research shows that cinnamon is effective in balancing blood sugar levels. With one of the richest food sources of antioxidants, powerful antibacterial powers and anti-inflammatory properties, be sure to sprinkle this on your foods to build your immune system during the cold and flu season. 

Ginger is an anti-inflammatory root most well known for its ability to soothe stomachs by reducing feelings of nausea. It is a powerful detoxifier that can reduce gastro distress and improve digestion. Add some to spice up your morning tea.  

 Cloves have powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties known for its high antioxidants. Cloves may relieve pain from injuries and arthritis as well as reduce symptoms of asthma and bronchitis.  

Nutmeg has many medicinal benefits ranging from calming anxiety, reducing joint pain, and supporting the digestive system.  

Enjoy my pumpkin spice truffle recipe, sinfully sweet without the guilt! 

Pumpkin Spice Truffles 

Ingredients: 

•  1 cup favorite raw nuts or seeds (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
• ½ cup meejooldates, pitted (approx. 6) 
• ¼ cup shredded unsweetened coconut (to rolltruffle in) 
• 1 chia seeds (optional)
• ½ tsp. cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. nutmeg
• ¼ tsp. cloves
• ¼ tsp. ground ginger

Directions: 

In a food processor pulse together spices & dates.  

1. Add in nuts and seeds and pulse until it forms a sticky ball. 
2. Roll dough in small balls.
3. Roll balls in coconut.
4. Refrigerate or freeze until ready to eat.