Cumin is part of the parsley family and is available either whole or ground. Cumin seeds have a slightly spicy flavor and aroma that pairs well with many types of meats and vegetables. Adding cumin to your spice cabinet offers several nutritional advantages. Look for cumin in the spice aisle of your local supermarket and store it in a dry, cool area for up to six months.
Low in Fat and Calories
Adding cumin to your meals provides an intense flavor without adding to their fat and calorie content. A teaspoon contains just 8 calories and under .5 g of fat. A diet that doesn't have excess fat and calories is one that promotes either healthy weight maintenance or weight loss.
Low In Sodium
If you are trying to cut back on your sodium intake, using herbs and spices is an alternative way to add flavor to your recipes. A teaspoon of cumin contains only 4 mg of sodium, making it an ideal choice for keeping your intake within the daily limit, which is 2,300 mg per day for healthy people.
Increases Nutrient Intake
A teaspoon of cumin contains several nutrients that are important for your health, including iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamin A. These nutrients play important roles in many aspects of your health, including blood oxygen transport, cell growth, bone and teeth health, blood pressure regulation, reproduction and immunity. While cumin is not enough to cover your daily intake recommendations of any of these nutrients, adding it to a well-balanced diet is a way to get an extra dose of nutrition at mealtime.
Contains Phytosterols
Phytosterols, which are compounds that come from plant foods, offer many health benefits. Increasing your phytosterol intake by adding cumin to your recipes may reduce your risk of high cholesterol and heart disease, reports the Linus Pauling Institute. Phytosterols may also play a role in preventing cancer, particularly cancers of the breast and prostate. One teaspoon of cumin contains an entire gram of phytosterols, making it a healthy addition to a diet rich in plant foods.
Versatile
The flavor of cumin makes it a tasty addition to a variety of foods. It is commonly used in dishes that feature lamb, couscous, lentils and curry. Other foods that complement the flavor of cumin include chicken, sausage, eggplant, beans, peas, pork, potatoes, rice, soups, stews and eggs.
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