The Holiday Spice focus now shifts to Mustard Seed and Nutmeg...
Mustard seed has strong antimicrobial properties
and provide ample spice and flavor without adding unnecessary calories and fat. Mustard seeds contain dietary fiber, protein,
calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese and selenium, which are
associated with muscle and nerve relaxation, improved digestion, increased fat
metabolism, and inhibited growth of cancer cells of the gastrointestinal tract.
Omega-3 fatty acids in mustard seeds increase brain function and tryptophan
promotes serotonin production, benefitting sleep and mood.
Tip: Consider
adding mustard seed to mashed potatoes and roasted cauliflower.
Nutmeg is one of the more popular spices in
holiday season dishes such as cakes, cookies, and custards and also creates a
warm and sweet flavor in cheese-based dishes, sauces, and vegetables. Ground
nutmeg is a source of dietary fiber, manganese, iron, copper, and vitamins A
and C, but it also contains a significant amount of saturated fat.
Tip:
Sprinkle nutmeg over sautéed spinach.
Note: While moderate amounts of
nutmeg can relieve anxiety, improve irregular sleep, soothe muscle and joint
ailments, and promote healthier digestion, higher levels of nutmeg are
associated with nausea and hallucinations. This popular holiday spice should be
used in moderation only.
Associated
recipe: Pumpkin Crème Brulee
 |
| Nutmeg (Photo via Wikimedia Commons) |
To round out my Season(ings) Greetings entries, check out Paprika and Turmeric here...
For a full archive of my nutrition articles for OKRA Magazine, click here.
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