by Melanie Albert, Nutrition Expert, Author, Founder & CEO, EXPERIENCE NUTRITION, Official Health & Wellness Partner NFL Alumni

Spices are a simple way to add a nice flavor to your meals and also good for you.  

Basil, a staple of Italian food, contains phytochemicals, which help stimulate the immune system. This summer I have a lot of basil in my garden and I love how it adds such a fresh taste to steamed veggies, such as a mix of carrots, sweet potatoes, onions, kale and dandelion greens. Plus, basil is the key ingredient in fresh pesto with walnuts, garlic and organic extra virgin olive oil.

Ginger or ginger root is a rhizome, or underground stem used in cooking around the world. Traditionally, it’s been used for nausea, as a digestive aid, anti-inflammatory, and a circulatory stimulant. Fresh ginger also treats colds, coughs and congestion. Use fresh ginger root in veggie stir-fries, roasted vegetables and I love to add them to my raspberry, soy milk, frozen banana smoothies.

Turmeric root, a fragrant, clean aromatic spice, popular in Indian curries. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show it may boost cognitive performance, and could break down Alzheimer’s brain plaques. Add fresh turmeric root to soups, rice dishes and I especially love fresh brewed turmeric tea.

Cinnamon, generally eaten in holiday cookies, is known to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and benefits cholesterol levels. I love cinnamon and add it to my steel cut oats almost every day. Also adds a different taste to smoothies.

Action: Which new spice will you add to your meals this week?