10 Spices and Seasonings to use instead of Salt

Too Much Salt

Can lead to things like dehydration, water retention and hypertension. However, sodium chloride (table salt), is necessary to maintain proper functioning in the body. The amount needed is one half of a teaspoon per day. That is not very much at all, and most Americans are getting way too much of it. It may take a while for your taste buds to adjust to less salt, but with these 10 spices and seasonings ready to step in and save the day, I doubt you will even miss it!

1. Garlic Powder

Garlic has been shown to help boost your immune system, reduce blood pressure and may even help reduce high cholesterol. Instead of adding a dash of salt to your eggs in the morning, try a few shakes of garlic powder. Don't forget to brush your teeth, though ;) 

2. Cumin

Cumin is chockfull of disease fighting antioxidants, along with Iron and Manganese. It has been known in traditional eastern medicine to help aid digestion, and has more recently been shown to possibly help increase insulin resistance. Add cumin to chili, soups, stir-frys, and tacos. But be warned, a little goes a long way!

3. Paprika

Paprika is made by grinding capsicum peppers into a fine powder. It boasts an impressive amount of carotenoids which helps to keep your eyes healthy and aids in night vision. One tablespoon provides over 100% of your recommended daily intake of Vitamin A. paprika makes an excellent addition to mexican style dishes, chili, and sauces.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric contains Curcumin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Turmeric is what gives curry it's bright-yellow color. To get the full benefits of turmeric, try adding it to rice with black pepper, coconut oil, butter or ghee. Because curcumin is fat soluble, it will absorb better when served with a healthy dietary fat.

5. Ginger

Ginger can be used in cooking, or by boiling the root and making tea. This powerful root has been shown to improve circulation in the body, and to possibly raise metabolism. It has been used in Ayurveda (ancient eastern medicine) as a digestive aid for thousands of years. Ginger has a very flexible flavor, and can be added to soup, desserts, and pairs nicely with poultry dishes.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

When you think of seasonings and spices, apple cider vinegar probably doesn't come to mind. However, it can be used (sparingly, as it can be overwhelming) to make almost anything taste better. Just a few teaspoons can add the extra little something to soup, salads, and sauces. If you have GERD symptoms or frequently experience indigestion and heart burn, try adding a capful or two to soup.

7. Curry Powder

Curry powder recipes vary by region, but typically it contains cumin, turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper and dried mustard. This is a great way to incorporate multiple spices into one dish, without a bunch of measuring. Curry powder, can of course be used in curry, but also adds a little zest to popcorn and steamed vegetables. Always start out with a little and work your way up, as some brands/varieties can be very spicy! I like to use curry powder when making a recipe with butternut squash. I think the sweetness in the squash really helps to balance out the spice of the curry powder.
  

8. Cinnamon

Cinnamon can take the place of salt by adding an incredible depth of flavor to red-meat dishes. Try adding it to chili, meatballs and meatloaf. Cinnamon has been thought to increase insulin resistance by stabilizing blood sugar levels, and can ward of candida overgrowth. A few shakes is all it will take to make your recipe next-level delicious.

9. Chili Powder
Chili powder has been thought to help boost metabolism, and is full of vitamins C and A. Chili powder that you can buy at the store is a usually a mix of seasonings, so read the ingredients carefully to make sure that it's not loaded with extra salt. Chili powder can add spice to beans, rice, and can also be used as a dry run or marinade for meat dishes. 

10. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is closely related to paprika, but has slightly different benefits. This spice has been gaining popularity by boasting detoxification properties, along with it's ability to stimulate digestive enzyme production and increase circulation. Cayenne pepper can be added to a variety of meals, including tacos, burritos, and even hot chocolate!

Now that we have covered 10 different ways to crowd-out extra salt in your diet, how do you plan to use these spices and seasonings? Did ay of them surprise you? Let me know what you think in the comments below. If you found this article helpful, be sure to "like" it on Facebook and share with your friends! 
I hope everyone is excited and getting ready for the holidays!
Warm wishes,

-Amara