Foods and Spices

Often when prepping a meal, food is the primary focus and spices are, at best, an afterthought. But when following an anti-inflammatory diet to help reduce the pain and joint inflammation of arthritis, researchers say don’t forget about the potential benefits of the spices you use to season your meals.  Jennie has prepared our meals carefully with these spices while avoiding the inflammatory foods and it makes a big difference in calming my boyhood injuries resulting in osteoarthritis. The more anti-inflammatory foods and spices we eat, the more we are calming down chronic inflammation. I think people are often amazed at what a great anti-inflammatory source spices can be.

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And although a dash of cinnamon on your oatmeal or a Shaklee Fiber Advantage bar is somewhat infinitesimal, spices can pack a significant punch when you consume a number of them throughout the day.

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If you do a teaspoon of cinnamon in oatmeal or a smoothie, then have some ginger tea made with SH\haklee Stomach Soothing Complex mid-morning and something with pepper and garlic for lunch and dinner it can certainly have an additive effect. So with spices – try with new recipes and try to add a spice with an anti -inflammatory benefit with every meal.”

With that thought in mind…here are some spices we have found to make a difference – only eat them on the days you want to feel arthritic free!

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Garlic

Garlic is a wonderful addition to just about any savory dish. Like onions and leeks, it contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that limits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Garlic, therefore can help fight the pain, inflammation and cartilage damage of arthritis. Opt for fresh garlic from your garden or the produce section of your market because preservatives may be added to bottled garlic and processing may decrease some of its strength.

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Turmeric

Curcumin is the active chemical in turmeric root; it blocks inflammatory cytokines and enzymes in two inflammatory pathways. Several human trials have shown an anti-inflammatory benefit, which can translate to reduced joint pain and swelling. The yellow spice is popular in curries and other Indian dishes. It is most effective in combination with black pepper, which helps the body absorb it better – so eat the two together when possible.

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Ginger

Gingerol and shogaol are the chemicals in ginger that block inflammation pathways in the body. Along with its anti-inflammatory properties, some studies have shown ginger can also reduce osteoarthritis symptoms, although other studies did not find such benefit.  I have used super concentrated ginger extract with my racquetball injuries with great success.  Ginger is a versatile spice and can go in both sweet and savory dishes. It’s best to use it in its fresh form. A great way to add ginger to your diet is to boil it into a tea: Put a one- to two-inch piece of fresh ginger root in boiling water for 30 to 60 minutes.

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Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, both of which have antioxidant properties that help inhibit cell damage caused by free radicals. Studies say more research is needed to make formal recommendations about its use, however.

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Cinnamon is delicious mixed with oatmeal or added to smoothies, but it’s not strong enough on its own to offer a therapeutic effect. Used in combination with other foods and spices, it may offer a cumulative anti-inflammatory effect over the course of the day.

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Cayenne

Chili peppers contain natural compounds called capsaicinoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Cayenne and other dried chilies spice up sauces, marinades and rubs. Chilies can be hot, so start with just a dash or two.

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