Most dried herbs and spices are low in calories, providing about 4 to 7 calories per teaspoon. So feel free to use them even if you are following a low-calorie regimen.
Some are surprisingly good sources of nutrients. Paprika is an excellent source of vitamin A, parsley is rich in vitamin C, cumin is an unexpected source of iron, and caraway seeds even contribute a little calcium to your diet.
New research findings suggest that several herbs are also rich sources of antioxidants that may possibly prevent the growth of cancer cells and protect delicate arteries from oxidizing damage that begins the buildup of plaque.
Among them: allspice, basil, clove, coriander, dill, fennel leaves, mint, nutmeg, parsley, rosemary, and sage.Aside from their nutrient and antioxidant contents, there are many health claims made for individual herbs.
Here are but a few: Mint relieves gas and nausea; cinnamon enhances insulin's activity; oregano has antiseptic properties; sage contains compounds that act as antibiotics; thyme is said to relieve cramps. Most, however, have not been scientifically proved.
Use the recommended spices for losing weight, as spices are considered as helping fight oxidative stress and inflammation as an important part of protecting your heart, and to gain muscle, as well as to satisfy cravings and hunger and raise your mood.