Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
Spices have been used to enhance the flavor of foods for centuries. Who does not like the taste of cinnamon when used in baking those wonderful buns? How about using turmeric in a hearty curry soup or goat recipe? Ginger is often used in soothing tea or in delicious baked goods.
These same spices have been valued as medicines in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. When used in small amounts, these spices are safe, however, when they are used in larger amounts, these wonderful spices that add so much flavor to our foods may negatively interact with certain medications and cause harm.
Let us look first at ginger. This spice is known for its blood sugar-lowering and cholesterol-lowering properties. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and stomach-soothing qualities.
On the flip side, one can see that when consumed in a concentrated or consistent manner, there is an increased risk of bleeding, stomach irritation, heartburn and/or bloating.
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It is known for its antioxidant properties, and some scientific evidence indicates that it may help with cognitive issues.
On the flip side, turmeric may affect liver enzymes. This, in turn, may affect chemotherapeutic agents, antidepressants, and even anti-hypertensive medications.
Let us look at our beloved cinnamon next. Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, blood sugar reducing and antitumor properties. It can aid in fighting multidrug-resistant bacteria.
On the other hand, cinnamon can increase the excretion of certain medications, thereby making them less effective. Unfortunately, consuming large amounts of cinnamon may damage the liver. It may also interact with antidepressants, antidiabetic medications, chemotherapeutic agents and painkillers. Large amounts of cinnamon may also contribute to dermatitis, headaches and upset stomachs.
The final thought here is that these wonderful spices, when used in small amounts in cooking, are safe. When consumed in large amounts, such as in supplements, it leads to a different thought process. One that includes how the spice may interact with the medications you are taking.
To avoid any unforeseen problems associated with taking spices as supplements, share your concerns with your healthcare provider.
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com.
