Cumin is an age-old seed and spice, referred to both in the Bible and in the ancient language of Sanskrit. Originating in India but eventually spanning many cultures far and wide, cumin has been used for its tasty and medicinal properties for centuries. For example, in Europe during the Middle Ages, cumin became known as a symbol of love. People would often carry cumin in their pockets to give at wedding ceremonies.
Traditionally, cumin is used in a variety of ways and is most known for its potent seed. Most often, cumin seed is ground and sprinkled into food as a seasoning and aromatic spice, or for a more intense flavor, roasted whole before being used. Cumin is also known for its potent essential oil, which delivers an even stronger dose of the many health benefits of cumin.
* Weight LossThere are many weight loss strategies. Many focus on cutting calories or restricting, while others target clean eating, macronutrient ratios, blood sugar, or consistent exercise.
There are many ways to lose weight. Some of these methods are sustainable and others, not so much. Most weight loss regimens require high levels of willpower to keep up—and often result in a lower success rate. For most people, getting healthy to lose weight, rather than losing weight to get healthy, may be easier than restriction. This includes adding healthy ingredients that support sustainable weight loss.
* Digestive HealthIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder, affecting 11 percent of individuals worldwide. Some of the most prevalent symptoms of IBS include bloating, abdominal pain, varying bowel habits, and, for many, a significant challenge with one’s quality of life.
While the many potential causes of IBS (including gender, stress, and small intestine bacterial overgrowth) are somewhat of a mystery, there has been some progress with treating IBS (and many other digestive issues) with cumin.
* Diabetes/Blood SugarBlood sugar management is becoming more and more popular in the health and wellness industry as blood sugar imbalance spikes and crashes in your blood sugar has been linked to many common health issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline.
Finding different ways of ensuring your blood sugar is stable is imperative to feeling your best. The way that you balance your macronutrients within each meal (protein, fat, and carbohydrates), the quality of your food, and the glycemic index of your meals—the speed at which your food turns to sugar in your blood—are all important considerations, along with some supportive superfoods to lend a hand.
* AntibacterialCumin seeds are a great way to stay healthy and strong during the common cold and flu season. Next time you reach for a box of tissues and a hearty dose of vitamin C, consider including a nourishing recipe infused with some cumin to your cold and flu protocol.
* Lowers Risk of Iron-Deficiency AnemiaWhile you have probably heard the term anemia, you may not have delved into the details of this very common deficiency. Iron-deficiency anemia occurs if you do not have enough iron in your body (primarily in your blood). Furthermore, iron-deficiency anemia can eventually lead to fatigue, weakness, and/or shortness of breath. Many people with iron-deficient anemia show clear signs and symptoms of anemia early on, while many others may not show any symptoms at all.