Every time you eat curries, chilis, and many other foods, including Mexican dishes like pibil and several strong-tasting European cheeses, youâre also eating a spice that can help your heart. Itâs called cumin, and itâs a staple of Mexican and Indian cooking. Cumin seeds may be small, but they pack a big punch when it comes to health benefits.
Cumin is one of those rare plant sources that are actually high in iron. Thatâs probably why it has earned a reputation as a heart-healthy food that can help stave off major complications in your circulatory systemâthe sorts of problems that can lead to high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks.
One recent study looked at black cuminâa particular type of cumin seed that has been used in folk medicine in the Middle East and some Asian countries for centuries. Throughout history, black cumin was valued for its ability to promote general good health and assist in the treatment of many ailments. The research team at the Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar focused in on cuminâs effect on the heart. They discovered that black cumin exerts measurable benefits throughout the entire cardiovascular system.
Combine these discoveries with the fact that cumin seeds can boost the function of your digestive system, and youâve got some pretty compelling evidence to add this food to your diet. Cumin is able to stimulate the release of certain enzymes in the pancreas that help with digestion and nutrient absorption.
Cumin seeds are easy to findâmost grocery stores have them in the spice section. You can buy ground cumin or whole cumin seeds. Cumin is just one of many different spices that can be added to your diet that can help to keep your heart and digestive system functioning smoothly.
Sources for Today’s Articles:
Help Your Heart with This Flavorful Spice
Asim, M., et al., âCardiovascular Benefits of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa),â Cardiovasc Toxicol. August 22, 2012.