Love it or hate it, cumin has powerful health benefits, and when combined with the right food and spices, it can really bring the flavor out of a dish!
Cumin is a spice that’s been around for thousands of years and is commonly used in Indian and Moroccan cuisines. But don’t let its long history frazzle you: this pungent spice can easily be incorporated in a wide variety of dishes.
Here are five diabetic reasons to add cumin to your diet.
#1 Reduce Blood Glucose
A study revealed that cumin reduces blood glucose levels as well as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in rats suffering from diabetes. Cumin also supports kidney health according to the researchers.
Another study reported that cumin might help reduce glucosuria, a condition characterized by too much glucose in the urine. While human studies continue to be ongoing, the results of animal studies have been very promising.
#2 Improve Digestion
A compromised digestive system hinders the absorption of nutrients.
Thymol is a compound found in cumin and can assist with the secretion of bile as well as digestive enzymes to facilitate the breakdown of the food that we eat. Cumin is also known to help relieve gas and soothe an upset stomach.
#3 Anti-Tumor Properties
Cumin holds impressive anti-tumor properties, thus protecting you against cancer.
#4 Skin Support
Cumin possesses anti-fungal and antioxidant properties that can help support skin health and fight premature aging.
#5 Reduce Cholesterol
According to several studies, cumin extract lowered cholesterol and triglycerides levels in rats.
Stuck on finding ways to add cumin to your diet? Here are a few creative ways to sneak this diabetes-supporting spice into your recipes:
- Make a taco seasoning with cumin
- Add cumin to curry powder
- Make a chili seasoning mix with cumin
- Sprinkle cumin over your salads
- Add cumin to homemade hummus
- Add cumin to homemade salad dressings
Remember that a little goes a long way with spices, so you only need a pinch or two to make a difference and pack in lots of flavors!
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