A condiment that helps treat irritable bowel syndrome and keep cholesterol in check

Victoria Vera Ziccardi, El País/GDA
he Cumin It is a widely used Kocina Different cultures from all over the world, from the Mediterranean to India, to Arabia and Mexico.

This ingredient is essential to the preparation of dishes such as curries and Mexican burritos, giving them a unique flavor. However, in addition to improving the flavor of food, cumin also has a variety of health benefits, such as Stimulates the digestive systemyes Anti-inflammatory effects And his ability to control cholesterol.

According to the McCormick Institute for Science, Cumin It originated in Iran and the Mediterranean region and dates back 5,000 years when it was used in the mummification of Egyptian pharaohs. An ancient belief states that couples who carry cumin seeds at their wedding will live happily ever after, highlighting its cultural and symbolic value.

inside KocinaThe small dark brown seeds of the plant can be eaten whole or ground into a powder. Although small, they have a slightly bitter, sweet flavor and should be used in moderation to avoid overpowering the flavor of the dish. Cumin can also be used to make a tea by adding hot water to the seeds and letting them sit.

Sol Vazquez, a nutrition graduate and founder of the Planta Made Functional Nutrition Centre, emphasises that cumin enriches food without adding calories, saturated fat, sugar or salt. “It can be toasted or fried, eaten alone or with other spices, crushed in a mortar to extract the essential oil, or ground completely,” he explains.

Yael Hasbani, a dietitian and natural nutrition consultant, mentions that in addition to improving the flavor of food, cumin has a variety of properties that benefit health. Among them, improving digestive function, reducing inflammation and controlling cholesterol stand out. In addition, it provides vitamins, minerals, flavonoids and terpenes, all bioactive antioxidant compounds.

Digestive Allies:
Cumin is known for its digestive properties, helping the digestive system function optimally and relieving discomforts such as indigestion, gas, and bloating.

A study titled “Cumin Extract for Symptom Management in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)” showed that consuming cumin for four weeks can be an effective and economical solution to improve IBS symptoms.

Fights Inflammation and Oxidation:
Many spices have the ability to reduce inflammation and oxidation in the body, and cumin is no exception. Sol Vazquez notes that cumin has carminative properties, meaning it can soothe and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it an ideal supplement for those looking to combat inflammation.

“Since it’s an antioxidant, it improves cellular health and fights free radicals in the body,” adds Hasbani.

1. Controls Cholesterol:
Various studies suggest that cumin may help control cholesterol. One study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that cumin powder dissolved in yogurt reduced LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Despite its many benefits, it is important Eat cumin with caution In some cases. Medical website WebMD warns people with allergies, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with bleeding disorders not to consume the product because it may slow blood clotting. However, in general, using cumin powder and its essential oil is considered a safe treatment.

Finally, Hasbani recommends storing cumin in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight, as these conditions can negatively affect its antioxidant properties.