If you are like the rest of us, there are days when our energy is just not there. When proper rest, exercises and meal are lacking, many of us simply grab caffeine-filled drinks to boost our energy. In reality, the best energy-boosters available are grains, spices, herbs, vegetables and fresh fruits. In fact, many fruits and veggies contain vitamins and minerals that conquer any fatigue-causing toxins.
Energy-packed foods are always better than chocolate, caffeine and artificial stimulants, like those energy drinks. There are herbs and spices that can really boost our energy:
1. Oregano:
Oregano is commonly found in many Italian dishes. It is an important ingredient when cooking pizza and several pasta recipes. Oregano is a nutritious herb that contains niacin, vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, boron, copper, potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium and calcium. It is also packed with useful antioxidants that can help us fight harmful free radicals that degrade our health progressively.
Oregano is highly appreciated for its anti-inflammatory properties and it supports joint functions. We should also use oregano for its anti-parasitic, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
2. Tumeric:
Tumeric is a popular root used in South and South East Asia. Not a familiar ingredient to many westerners, turmeric is widely known as the super spice. It doesn’t only offer impressive health benefits, but also wonderful taste. Turmeric provides anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and any inflammation-related illnesses.
Dozens of studies has mentioned that possible health benefits of curcumin, including its antitumor effects. Curcumin could also reduce cholesterol levels and it is a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is lever-friendly and a knockout medicine for people with various liver-related complaints, such as hepatitis.
3. Garlic:
Garlic is a very common herb used for many recipes around the world. It is known for savory taste when cooked and health benefits. It helps us bring down cholesterol level, prevent blood clot, get rid of plaque and bring down triglycerides. Garlic is an important cancer fighter and can help us deal with common cold. In fact, new studies show that garlic is an important ingredient in most weight-control programs.
Among many of its beneficial compounds, allicin is probably the most dominant. When crushed, garlic will produce some amount of allicin, but it will degrade eventually. So, it is better to choose fresher garlic. Before eating, it is advisable to add bits of crushed garlic; not only it will improve taste, but also make our dishes more nutritious. It should be noted that microwave destroys much of garlic’s potential benefits.
4. Ginger:
Ginger is widely known as an “universal remedy”. The plant offers a wide range of benefits and pharmaceutical properties. People are also aware of ginger’s awesome power to shut down nausea, comfort nauseated stomach and other illnesses. Pregnant women who often experience morning sickness could use ginger to alleviate their condition. Ginger can also help digestion by improving saliva production. Overall, ginger is an important energy-boosting root that can make us feel fresher, especially when the weather is colder.