Daily spices may be key to combating fat and high cholesterol, scientists say
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Research has found that a specific spice can have profound effects on metabolic health.
Black cumin, known as Nigella sativa or black seed, is used in many Middle Eastern and Indian dishes, such as curries and naan. It is also found in some baked goods and spice blends.
High-antioxidant black seed oil is also sold as a dietary supplement and is often used to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive health.
EATING ONE TYPE OF NUTS DAILY COULD REDUCE “BAD” CHOLESTEROL AND IMPROVE HEART HEALTH, STUDY ACCORDING
A recent study published in the journal Food Science & Nutrition examined the effect of black cumin on cholesterol levels.
Researchers in Osaka, Japan, conducted laboratory cell testing and a randomized human trial in which participants consumed 5 grams of powdered black cumin seed per day for eight weeks.
Black cumin, or black seed, is used in a variety of dishes for flavor and flavor. (iStock)
Participants’ cholesterol and appetite levels were measured before and after taking the supplement.
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The human trial revealed a decrease in triglycerides, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and total cholesterol, as well as an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
The findings also revealed a “significant improvement” in hunger levels, indicating the potential benefits of black cumin for appetite control.
According to the study, black cumin seed powder increased “good” cholesterol. (iStock)
The researchers concluded that both in vitro (laboratory) and human trials demonstrated the “anti-adipogenic and lipid-lowering effects” of black cumin.
“The study highlights the potential of [black cumin seed extract] “These results suggest that black cumin seed may serve as a promising natural agent in obesity-related conditions, although further research involving comprehensive metabolic parameters is warranted.”
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Theresa Link, a registered dietitian at Virta Health in Nebraska, reacted to these findings in an interview with News Digital.
Cholesterol is “just one piece” of the cardiovascular health “puzzle,” the expert noted, which means these findings need to be considered more broadly for metabolic health.
High-antioxidant black seed oil is also sold as a dietary supplement and is often used to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive health. (iStock)
Link also pointed to a 2021 study that found black seed oil caused greater weight loss in participants who took it daily. Participants also reported feeling fuller, which “likely contributed to their success.”
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“Although these short-term results are promising, the studies only lasted eight weeks,” the dietician noted. “Black cumin seed alone is not a magic bullet for preventing obesity, but it can play a supportive role in weight management when combined with an overall healthy lifestyle.”
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The spice also contains a compound called thymoquinone, which is rich in antioxidants and may offer additional benefits.
“Longer-term studies are needed to confirm these effects and understand how N. sativa might fit into a broader approach to metabolic and cardiovascular health,” Link added.
Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for News Digital.