Healthy, anti-inflammatory Christmas spices and how to use them

What scents do you associate with Christmas? Back in Sweden which is our background – many of us would probably say; the smell of mulled wine, gingerbread and saffron buns. But where do these wonderful scents really come from? In fact, they all belong to a group of spices that are both rich in flavour and actually possess several anti-inflammatory and health-promoting properties. In this article we will tell you more about these spices and how to make anti-inflammatory dishes that get you into the Christmas sprit.

Healthy Christmas spices

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is popular all year round, not just during Christmas. In addition to its characteristic taste, cinnamon is also known to be anti-inflammatory and has been shown to, among other things, increase insulin sensitivity, reduce blood lipids in the blood and regulate levels of blood glucose as well as blood pressure.

The type of cinnamon most often found in stores is the so-called cassia cinnamon, which contains high levels of the poisonous substance coumarin. Cassia cinnamon should therefore not be consumed in large quantities as it can strain the liver in the long run. A good alternative is Ceylon cinnamon – also known as “real cinnamon” – which contains such an insignificant amount of coumarin that it is risk-free to consume.

Cardamom

A spice that originates from India and is often used to flavour mulled wine. Cardamom contains plenty of antioxidants, which makes it anti-inflammatory. The antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Cardamom can also help lower blood pressure, lower blood glucose levels and has also been shown to be good for digestion. Last but not least, cardamom has antibacterial properties which can have a positive effect on dental health and respiration.

Cloves

Clove is one of the the most antioxidant-rich spices and foods there is, and has due to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic (cleansing) and anaesthetic properties been widely used within Asian medicinal traditions such as Indian Ayurveda. Cloves are rich in the minerals manganese, iron, magnesium and calcium, as well as vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin B6, vitamin C and riboflavin. Cloves should also be very effective against flatulence in the gut.

Caraway

Caraway is related to parsley and has a nutty and liquorice-like taste. One of the primary benefits of caraway is that it relieves stomach pain, as it has an antispasmodic and gas-relieving effect in the stomach and intestines. In addition, caraway is very rich in iron and stimulates the digestive system.

Saffron

Saffron – perhaps best known as the world’s most expensive spice, and also known for giving lollipops their characteristic taste and colour. Like the rest of the Christmas spices, saffron is very anti-inflammatory due to its high concentration of antioxidants. Saffron also seems to help balance the production of serotonin, which can have a positive effect on mood. Last but not least, saffron has the potential to improve both concentration and sleep quality.

Ginger

Ginger, which is closely related to turmeric – another anti-inflammatory favourite – is well known for its health-promoting properties. Among other things, ginger can relieve nausea, muscle aches and joint pain, and contributes to better digestion. Ginger has also been shown to lower levels of blood glucose and bad cholesterol. In addition, ginger has antibacterial properties.

Anise

Anise can be identified by its strong aroma and taste of liquorice. This taste might not be for everyone, but anise is nonetheless very nutritious. For example, anise contains plenty of both iron and the minerals manganese, calcium and magnesium. Anise is also anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, mood-boosting and antibacterial.

Make anti-inflammatory dishes using Christmas spices

• Season your raw balls or other sugar- and flour-free treats to add flavour. Cinnamon, cardamom and ginger are good on their own, or mix several spices together or use a ready-made gingerbread spice mix.
• Replace your rice porridge with a chia pudding or overnight oats and season it with Christmas spices – saffron works very well!
• Make your own homemade seeded crackers – baked at a low temperature in the oven – extra tasty if you season them with anise and caraway, or why not try making cinnamon crackers?
• Make a hot cup of spice tea or a spice latte. Mix some tasty spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves, herbal milk and slowly heat in a saucepan on the stove. Add a little honey for a sweeter taste. Can also be mixed with hot water and a little honey to make a flavourful and anti-inflammatory tea.
• Make your own granola that you season with Christmas spices. Mix oatmeal, pumpkin seeds, soaked buckwheat and other seeds/nuts with your favourite spices and a few tablespoons of coconut oil. Spread out on an oven tray and leave in the oven at a low temperature for a few hours. Stir at regular intervals.

Merry Christmas!

Super Synbiotics: The Perfect Addition to Your Daily Routine for Optimal Gut Health

Looking to boost your energy and get rid of uncomfortable bloating? Taking care of your gut health might just be the solution you've been looking for. A balanced and strong gut flora is crucial for optimal health, and to achieve that, you need to nourish it with a daily dose of pre- and probiotics. While a healthy diet is a great start, sometimes you need an extra boost to make sure you're getting enough of the good stuff. That's where Synbiotic15 comes in.

By taking Synbiotic15, you'll experience a host of benefits, including a stronger immune system, better digestion, reduced inflammation, healthier skin, and relief from common stomach issues. This all-natural supplement is made from a unique blend of four patented lactic acid bacteria and four grams of prebiotic fibres that serve as nourishment for the good bacteria in your gut. And with over 20 years of research behind it, you can trust that it's a proven solution to help you take control of your gut health.

Simply mix Synbiotic15 into your morning routine by adding it to water, blending it into a smoothie, sprinkling it over your yogurt, or taking it on its own. It's an easy and effective way to give your gut the boost it needs. Don't wait any longer to take charge of your health – buy Synbiotic15 now and level up your health and wellbeing.