Spices are key to a curry, but a recent study has found that not only is one commonly used spice good for losing weight, it can also contribute to a stronger and healthier heart
A key ingredient used in a true staple of British cuisine could help you lose weight and stay healthy, according to a new study. It comes as scientists unearth more and more health benefits to some of our classic dishes.
Black cumin is a commonly used spice that is thrown into many curries, ranging from korma to paneer. It is also used in a slew of other Indian dishes, giving a kick to the taste but also adding a new and fresh flavour to the food.
But it has now been revealed that the spice is not just incredibly tasty — it also has a host of health benefits. It can help people stay slim, and even has ways to protect the heart, according to the latest data.
Clinical trials using the black spice found that it can help to stop the formation and buildup of fat cells in the body, according to the Daily Mail. As well as this, cumin is also a healthy way to control cholesterol and ensuring the heart pumps blood smoothly.
Scientists are now hoping that it could be branded as a “functional food”, which is key to help stop obesity-related conditions from developing. Researchers are thrilled to see the results, and are now looking at even more potential uses as a healthy and natural alternative.
“Our findings offer important insights into the potential use of black cumin seed as a natural intervention for obesity,” the findings of the study said. “It was so gratifying to see black cumin comprehensively demonstrate actual, demonstrable blood lipid–lowering effects in a human trial.”
The trial, carried out at Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan, saw 42 people take part, each with high levels of cholesterol. As part of their research, every participant was told to have 5g of cumin each day for eight weeks.
Results after the trial period found that the cumin powder helped to dramatically reduce the number of so-called blood triglycerides, as well as bringing down “bad” cholesterol levels whilst “good” cholesterol increased.
The results of the study highlighted a link between the spice and a lower risk of heart conditions later in life. Professors studying the health benefits of cumin are now confident the spice can be used as a means for “preventing obesity and lifestyle–related diseases”.
Cumin has been used in traditional medicine for generations, thanks to its ability to absorb toxins. It also has been applied as a natural alternative to anti-inflammatories.
According to the scientists who carried out the experiment, the next goal is to investigate the potential for cumin to help regulate insulin within people with diabetes. Currently, there is no scientific link that can prove this, but studies could highlight a connection that could explored even further.
Back in 2021, a group of studies branded cumin as a “miracle herb” for its ability to reduce inflammation, boost immunity from viruses and help to maintain the lifespan of cells. It also has been proven to improve metabolism, and is a staple ingredient in other products including breads, soups and salads.
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