Spices

Spices like cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, pepper, and chili may help prevent clogged arteries. These and other spices have anti-inflammatory properties that may also lower blood lipid levels, scavenge free radicals, and reduce platelet clumping.

For example, the major ingredient of the curry spice turmeric, curcumin, is a polyphenol, a type of naturally occurring antioxidant. Plants contain polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and other protective qualities. Previous research in rats demonstrated the ability of curcumin to prevent heart failure. Compounds made from turmeric have also been suggested as possible treatments for breast cancer, arthritis, and Alzheimer's. By adding these flexible spices to oats, soups, stews, or any other dish you can think of, you can quickly enhance your spice consumption.