Big things can come in small packages and mustard seeds certainly fit that bill.
Here's why…
Mustard seeds offer a wide range of benefits including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory effects.
You might be thinking…”All that and they boost metabolism too?!” I know, I was.
These seeds are among the Brassica foods from the cruciferous plant family (broccoli, cabbage, etc.) which explains the unique healing properties of this spice from South Asia.
Mustard seed's antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties are much studied. This is why it is highly revered by ancient traditional medicine systems.
Recent research has shed light on its ability to boost metabolism and its effects on weight loss.
Add a few teaspoons to boost your metabolic rate
A 2011 study revealed that mustard seeds have thermogenic effect. This means that they raise your body's calorie-burning capacity.
In a 10 week study on rats, researchers observed that rats, fed with lard and supplemented with mustard oil showed anti-obesity effects. These were marked by a rise in metabolic rate and lowered adipose fat accumulation.
The study results said that mustard oil shows a potential anti-obesity effect by regulating body weight and fat accumulation.
So, adding a few teaspoons of mustard seeds every day in your diet can actually boost your metabolic rate and may help you keep off that extra weight.
As a bonus, you also get trace minerals
- phosphorus
- magnesium
- copper
- vitamin B1.
Furthermore, 2 -3 teaspoons of mustard seeds are an excellent source of
- selenium (an antioxidant mineral)
- omega-3 fats
- manganese
All these nutrients play a vital role in the way you burn your carbs, protein and fat.
Here's how to get more mustard seed on your menu
1. Season with seeds: Seasoning your dishes with mustard seeds is a great way to add small doses of this fantastic spice to your menu. To season your dish, ensure the oil is hot enough to help the mustard seeds splutter and release its flavor. Works well in curry dishes, salads, gravy, rice dishes.
2. Mustard sauce/paste: Mustard paste is great for fish dishes, marinades, mixed vegetables stir fry, tacos, sandwiches, etc.
3. Mustard oil: A dash of mustard oil on a salad or seasoning is an easy way to incorporate the goodness of mustard.
4. Mustard powder: It can be added to spice rubs for meat, added to soups or of course you can add water to make mustard. It's great for on-the-go.
5. This simple sauerkraut recipe using mustard seeds, enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
Shredded carrot or zucchini
4 teaspoon freshly ground mustard seeds ( roasting seeds gives an extra kick of flavor)
2- 3 tsp coconut or olive oil. You can add mustard oil as well, if you don't mind a strong mustard flavor in your dish
2-3 tsp red chili powder
2-3 tsp unrefined sesame oil
Himalayan Sea Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS
Combine all ingredients and let it sit on your kitchen counter top for 12 hours for a nourishing probiotic dish.
Yours in Health,
Danette
P.S. Please share this with your friends and I love hearing from you in the comments below.
