HealthSpice up your brain health: Four kitchen staples to fight degeneration

Spice up your brain health: Four kitchen staples to fight degeneration

What properties does cinnamon have?

Images source: © Licensor | DAVID J. NEAL

18 April 2024 17:02

What spices protect our brains? Matt Webster, a healthy eating expert and the founder of Seasoned Pioneers, has pinpointed four spices that are exceptionally good for our brain health. Chances are, these are already staples in your kitchen.

**1. Ginger**

This zesty spice boasts hundreds of phytochemicals that shield the brain from the detrimental impacts of free radicals and oxidative stress. Research has indicated that ginger can boost cognitive functions and improve memory in healthy individuals. It also offers protection against neurodegenerative diseases—like Alzheimer's—by decelerating cellular ageing.

**2. Turmeric**

The star component of turmeric, curcumin, has neuroprotective qualities that aid in preserving mental sharpness and supporting brain health. Being anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, anticancer, and anti-aging, turmeric is a formidable ally against neurodegenerative diseases.

Studies have revealed that curcumin boosts the level of the growth hormone BDNF, which is found to decrease in Alzheimer's patients.

**3. Cinnamon**

Cinnamon aids in learning and memory formation by facilitating the creation of new neural pathways. It is also laden with antioxidants, thwarting the accumulation of proteins in the brain linked with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Additionally, cinnamon boosts the brain's insulin sensitivity, which is essential for sustaining sound cognitive functions. Sprinkling it on your morning coffee can give your brain a much-appreciated boost.

**4. Black Pepper**

Research in animals suggests that black pepper extract can ameliorate symptoms of degenerative brain diseases. Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that enhances memory and lessens the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain.

Due to its antioxidant properties, pepper can protect brain cells from damage and improve cognitive functions. Incorporating it regularly into your meals could improve brain health and reduce your risk of neurodegenerative disease.