Herbs and spices enhance heart health

Spices and herbs are rich in antioxidants, which may help improve triglyceride concentrations and other blood lipids, according to US-based nutritionists. Triglyceride levels rise after eating a high-fat meal -- which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. If a high-antioxidant spice blend is incorporated into the meal, triglyceride levels may be reduced by as much as 30 percent when compared to eating an identical meal without the spice blend. The spiced meal included garlic powder, rosemary, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, paprika, turmeric, ginger and black pepper.