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While spices prevent inflammation in the body and help boost immunity, not all of them are suitable for the summer season. There are certain spices that may affect the optimal functioning of the gut in some people. However, there are some summer-friendly spices that should be included in the diet to improve digestion, food taste and nutrient absorption. For example, ginger has a warming effect on the body and also helps prevent constipation in winter, but consumption of this spice should be limited in summer to prevent heat illnesses. Similarly, chillies may not be the best choice in summer for many individuals as it may cause heartburn, acidity and other gut-related problems. Due to the hot nature of garlic, its consumption should also be limited. (Also Read | Ancient Wisdom Part 23: 5 Ancient Spices For Weight Loss; How To Include Them In Your Diet)
Spices to Avoid in Summer
Ayurveda practitioner Dr. Zeel Gandhi, in an interview with HT Digital, has shared a list of spices that should be consumed with caution during the summer months:
1. Ginger: In Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia it is called ‘Mahaushadh’ (Great Medicine). Still, if used in excess, this spice can overheat the body system in summer. If you suffer from blood and pitta (heat) problems, avoid consuming fresh ginger in large quantities and switch to dried ginger.
2. Asafoetida: Asafoetida is a common ingredient in Indian cooking. This spice/masala is excellent for increasing metabolism. However, individuals who are pitta (fire) dosha dominant or suffer from blood inflammation should use it with caution in the hotter months.
3. Chilli (Nightshade): Chilli has been adopted into Indian cuisine in recent times. In summers, all types of chillies including thin, long, green, red and capsicum/capsicum should be used sparingly. The capsaicin present in this nightshade group causes burning and irritation. Avoid it if you suffer from frequent intestinal irritation, heartburn or other gut related problems.
4. Clove: The essential oil component of cloves (eugenol) is extremely hot. Cloves should be used with extreme caution in hot weather. People who suffer from bleeding problems (piles, menorrhagia, nose bleeding, etc.) or whose body is pitta (hot) dominant should avoid it during the summer months and autumn.
5. Garlic: Garlic is famous for its intense heat, both for its flavor and its effect on the mind. This heat (Rajas-guna) is so powerful that people seeking spiritual advancement often avoid garlic because of the mental challenges it poses. Garlic is a taboo for individuals with Pitta nature and those suffering from blood imbalance during the hot months.
spices for summer
Spices are an important part of food science. They improve digestion and help balance dosha-imbalances. Spices have also been proven to improve the bioavailability of nutrients in food. Most importantly, they make food delicious and hence indispensable.
Dr. Zeel has shared a list of spices that can boost metabolism during summers without overheating the body.
Cumin, mint, dill, celery, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf, fennel, coriander, chives, black pepper (in moderation), etc.
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