TEXAS: Recent groundbreaking research conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife has elevated cardamom from a mere spice to a “superfood,” showcasing its potential to contribute to weight loss and overall health. The study, led by lead researcher Luis Cisneros-Zevallos, PhD, a distinguished professor of horticulture and food science at the Department of Horticultural Sciences within Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, in partnership with the Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, has unveiled the remarkable dietary advantages of cardamom consumption.
Published in the esteemed International Journal of Molecular Sciences, the study delves into the multifaceted benefits of incorporating cardamom into one’s diet. Renowned for its aromatic blend of eucalyptus, mint, and pepper, cardamom is celebrated for its warm herbal flavor and is a staple in various global cuisines.
Health Benefits of Cardamom
Dr. Cisneros-Zevallos underscored the pioneering nature of the research, emphasizing that cardamom’s potential as a dietary powerhouse extends beyond its current recognition. The study not only reveals cardamom’s ability to stimulate appetite but also demonstrates its potential to increase energy expenditure and support fat loss.
The research was conducted on live animal subjects, with various dosages of cardamom seeds integrated into a standard diet. The findings suggest that a daily consumption of 8 to 10 cardamom pods provides approximately 77 milligrams of cardamom bioactives, which could yield beneficial outcomes for an adult weighing 60 kg.
Moreover, the study illuminates cardamom’s influence on neural circuits responsible for regulating adipose tissue lipolysis and mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in both the liver and skeletal muscle.
Dr. Cisneros-Zevallos further highlighted cardamom’s potential anti-inflammatory properties, emphasizing its ability to counteract low-grade inflammation—a precursor to chronic inflammatory conditions and various diseases.
The implications of these findings span diverse industries, encompassing sports, functional foods, and dietary supplements. Cardamom seeds, recognized for their potential to enhance health and well-being, may be integrated into the production of health-enhancing products, revolutionizing the way consumers approach weight loss and overall wellness.
