Looking after your heart Both cardamom and sweet basil are often included in curry powder and they're known as vasodilators. In other words, they can lower blood pressure, which means reducing the chance of developing cardiovascular conditions, including atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
Many of the ready-made curry powders that you buy in supermarkets are filled with sodium. One way you can avoid these is to make your own curry at home using curry powder. This is actually a spice mix that the British invented to mimic the flavours of Indian food.
Made up of meat and vegetables in a spiced sauce, usually accompanied by rice, curry can potentially claim 'good for you' status. The vegetables contain lots of minerals and nutrients, and turmeric – the main spice in most curry powders – has anti-inflammatory effects.
One study found that people who eat more curry powder are less likely to have high blood pressure. Another study found that having curry powder in a meal improves circulation immediately after the meal. The turmeric commonly found in curry powder also helps lower cholesterol, which makes heart disease less likely.
Beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and avocado are other potassium-rich foods that may help lower blood pressure naturally. Kiwifruit: According to one study, eating three kiwifruit daily can help dramatically lower blood pressure. Kiwi is delicious chopped up in fruit salad or sprinkled on top of plain yogurt.
Beverages like skim milk, tomato juice, and beet juice may help decrease blood pressure. But it's always important to remember moderation — more of these drinks is not always better.
Curries can provide many health benefits, and they don't have to be full of saturated fats. The spices used in curries, such as turmeric, ginger and chilli, are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being of benefit to heart health and possible anticancer benefits.
The abundance of vegetarian options makes it easy for heart-conscious diners to go out for Indian food. The warming spices they feature, such as turmeric and garam masala, are also anti-inflammatory, which is great for the heart.
As well as main curry dishes being high in salt; you can more than DOUBLE your salt intake with extras such as chutney and Naan bread.
Pain and Inflammation Relief – one of the most important ingredients in curry powder is turmeric. Turmeric has been found very effective in relieving joint pains and treating inflammation.
Avocados
Avocados are one of the best sources of monounsaturated fats. This type of fat can lower high blood pressure and prevent high blood pressure. A single avocado also has more than 10 grams of blood pressure-reducing fiber.
You don't have to cut cheese out of your diet, but if you have high cholesterol or blood pressure, use high-fat cheeses sparingly. A 30g portion of cheese provides seven per cent of your daily calories and there can be more salt in a portion of cheddar than in a packet of crisps.
Many of the spices used in curry have been shown to boost metabolism, which can help the body burn more calories. Additionally, curry is often made with lean proteins such as chicken or fish, which can be beneficial for weight loss. Curry may also help to relieve stress.
If we talk about chicken, the variations loaded with spices, cream and butter are definitely not worth a daily diet. If you are going to eat chicken daily, then it is best to either grill it or roast it. When prepared in a healthy way, it is okay to have chicken on a daily basis.