The common herb that slashes Alzheimer’s risk and lowers blood sugar
A COMMON herb found in many dishes has properties that can slash your risk of Alzheimer's and lower your blood sugar.
It's a divisive flavour, with people either loving it or hating it, but it's thought to be very beneficial for your health.
Coriander, which is related to parsley, carrots and celery, is used in curries, soups and salsas.
It is thought to be helpful in lowering blood sugar.
The herb is so good in fact, that people who already have low blood sugar or are on diabetes medication should be careful when eating it.
Studies in animals have shown coriander seeds reduce blood sugar by promoting enzyme activity that removes sugar.
The flavourful garnish is also good for your brain, and keeping it in tip top shape.
Diseases such as Alzheimer's are linked to brain inflammation - and coriander's anti-inflammatory properties might help fight against that.
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One study in rats found it protected against nerve-cell damage and improved memory.
It could also help with anxiety, with another study showing it had a similar effect as a common anxiety medication.
Your heart could even benefit from the herb, with some studies suggesting it lowers heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.
In populations that eat a lot of coriander, the rate of heart disease is much lower - which could be to do with the properties it holds.
But also, as it gives dishes much more flavour, it could be that less salt and sugar is used.
Oil taken from coriander seeds could also be helpful in aiding healthy digestion.
A small study looking at people with irritable bowel syndrome found drops of herbal medication containing coriander decreased pain, bloating and discomfort.
It is also thought to have antimicrobial compounds that might help fight certain infections, such as urinary tract infections.
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Coriander also appears to have several benefits for your skin, including soothing mild rashes.
Some studies found it could prevent cell damage, that can spark quicker skin aging and damage from ultraviolet B radiation.
Coriander leaf juice has been used for people suffering with skin conditions like acne, oiliness or dryness - but more research is needed on this.
Coriander juice could help people trying to shift visceral fat, according to wellness psychologist Ieva Kebiliute.
Large amounts of visceral fat can increase the risk of developing chronic health conditions, like heart disease.
It's linked to a sedentary lifestyle, without much movement and lots of sitting down.
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The best way to healthily lose weight is to make sure you are eating a mix of fruit and veg and cutting down on sugar, while making sure you exercise.
It might not be the best idea for everyone to have lots of additional coriander or take it in oil and extract form, so talk it through with a medical professional before you overhaul your diet.