STOP buying Capsules for your gut health improvement

Instead, try these 6 whole spices

Pooja Rane
ILLUMINATION
3 min readFeb 7, 2024

--

Photo by Prchi Palwe on Unsplash

When I moved to the US in 2015 for my Master’s at the age of 21, my roommates and I were constantly on the lookout for affordable, long-lasting food items.

Back then, I had only heard of Walmart (every student’s go-to), but I once saw an advertisement about Costco’s pre-made foods and since then “COSTCO” has become our go-to store for everything from food supplies to home decor.

During one of my visits to this bulk haven, I encountered something that left me surprised — an employee selling “Turmeric capsules for improving gut health.”

If you’ve ever stepped into an Indian household, you’ll likely find a circular spice box filled with powdered spices and a rack brimming with whole spices.

Growing up, Ayurveda introduced me to the world of spices in my daily meals.

However, in the Western world, the concept seemed alien. The tendency here is to opt for capsules to enhance gut health and combat vitamin deficiencies.

Having experienced firsthand the profound impact of a healthy gut on overall well-being, I realized the stark contrast in approaches to gut health between cultures. Our gut isn’t just a digestion center; it significantly influences emotions, the immune system, and even the condition of our skin, hair, and nails.

For those seeking to enhance their gut health without relying on capsules, I present my favorite spice secrets that transformed my digestive well-being.

Forget about buying capsules; instead, take a trip to an Asian or Middle Eastern grocery store!

Cumin — The Digestive Champion:

Cumin, a versatile spice in Middle Eastern, Mexican, and Indian cuisines, has become a staple in my daily routine.

Beyond its culinary appeal, cumin cools the stomach, reduces inflammation, and supports digestion.

Whether sautéed in oil for marinades or brewed into a soothing tea, incorporating the Cumin-Coriander-Fennel (CCF) blend has become a morning ritual, kickstarting my digestive system and promoting lymphatic system stimulation.

Fennel — Post-Meal Magic:

A post-meal tradition in many Indian households, fennel seeds work wonders for digestion.

Whether chewed raw, dry-roasted, or boiled into a comforting tea, fennel seeds alleviate discomfort, aid digestion, and relieve issues like gas and bloating.

Adding these seeds to your routine after a heavy meal can make a noticeable difference in your digestive well-being.

Coriander — The Digestive Trio:

Coriander, an essential part of the digestive trio along with cumin and fennel, adds both flavor and medicinal benefits to your meals.

Rich in airy pockets of flavor, coriander seeds can be used in various dishes or combined to create a powerful digestive blend.

Boiling these seeds into a morning tea not only supports detoxification but also sets the stage for improved digestion throughout the day.

Turmeric — Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory:

Celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is a spice powerhouse.

Whether incorporated into curries, desserts, or soothing evening milk with cardamom, turmeric aids digestion and supports overall gut health.

Mixing turmeric with black pepper enhances its absorption, creating a potent combination to combat inflammation and promote a healthier gut.

Cardamom — The Digestive Stimulator:

Known for its sweet and aromatic properties, cardamom stimulates digestive enzymes, aiding the smooth passage of food through the digestive tract.

Whether used in desserts, teas, or evening milk, cardamom not only adds delightful flavor but also contributes to a relaxed gut.

Grinding whole cardamom pods provides a fresher and more flavorful experience.

Ajwain — The Digestive Soother:

A lesser-known spice, ajwain, holds incredible digestive properties.

Traditionally used to relieve congestion during colds, ajwain also stimulates digestive enzymes, providing relief from bloating and discomfort.

Boiling ajwain in water and sipping it post-meal can offer quick relief and contribute to a happier digestive system.

Conclusion:

Spices aren’t just culinary delights; they are potent allies in achieving a healthier gut and, consequently, a happier life.

Incorporating these spices into your daily routine, whether through teas, cooking, or spice blends, can make a significant impact on your overall well-being.

Embrace the power of spices, and let them become your companions on the journey to improved gut health.

Remember, it’s not just about flavor — about nourishing your body from within. Cheers to a spicier and happier you!

Don’t worry you don’t need to buy me coffee or my course! If you liked the read, let’s connect🌻

--

--

Pooja Rane
ILLUMINATION

Writing helps me soothe my soul, so here I am 🌻| I show my “techyside” on : https://www.youtube.com/@poojarane11494, Currently in Dallas, TX