What happens to your body when you add saffron to your diet

Saffron is a spice derived from the saffron crocus flower (Crocus sativus L.). It is very expensive and sought after due to its medicinal properties and culinary uses. Here’s how adding it to your diet could affect your body.

Saffron is rich in antioxidants, such as carotenoids And terpenes as safranal. They can reduce inflammation and prevent a type of cellular damage called oxidative stress.

A 2019 study of 80 people with type 2 diabetes found that 100 milligrams of saffron per day for 12 weeks significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of oxidative stress.

Saffron has shown promise as a natural treatment for anxiety and depression. It has been shown to have a significant positive effect on symptoms and effects similar to antidepressants.

Saffron compounds, such as crocin and safranal, help block the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. This helps increase the levels of these feel-good chemicals in your brain.

Although saffron shows promise, more research is needed. It is important to consult a doctor before trying it.

Saffron has been shown to help improve memory and daily functioning in people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.

A 2021 study found that the spice’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may support brain health. Some results are contradictory and therefore further research is needed.

Saffron may improve age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

Saffron supplementation has been shown to improve vision in people with diabetic maculopathya complication of diabetes. It may also reduce eye pressure in people with glaucoma.

Inflammation is the cause of most eye diseases. The anti-inflammatory compounds in saffron may reduce inflammation and prevent disease progression.

Due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of saffron, this spice can prevent heart disease.

A 2021 review of 19 studies found that saffron significantly reduced risk factors for heart disease, such as:

• Diastolic blood pressure (the lowest number on a reading)
• Fasting blood sugar
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
• Total cholesterol

Some evidence suggests that saffron may be a natural treatment for obesity.

Carotenoids like crocetin and crocin help support metabolism and reduce inflammation, making it easier to manage your weight. Metabolism is the process your body uses to convert food and drinks into energy.

The active substances in saffron can help you sleep. A review of five studies and 379 participants found that treatments containing saffron helped improve sleep quality and duration.

Researchers have suggested that saffron may increase melatonin levels and act on certain brain receptors. Melatonin is a hormone that helps control your sleep-wake cycle.

These results are promising, but the research is limited. Additional studies on the effects of saffron on sleep are needed.

A 2 tablespoon serving of saffron contains nutrients, such as:

• Calories: 13
• Fat: 0.25 grams (g), or 0.32% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Sodium: 6.22 milligrams (mg), or 0.27% of the DV
• Carbohydrates: 2.74 g, or 1% of the DV
• Fiber: 0.16 g, or 0.57% of the DV
• Added sugar: 0g
• Protein: 0.48 g, or 0.96% of the DV

Saffron is usually consumed in small quantities, so it is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. A 2 tablespoon serving covers more than 50% of your daily manganese needs.

Manganese is a mineral involved in metabolism and immune and nerve function. It is also important for blood clotting.

Saffron also provides a small amount of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C is important for immune function and collagen synthesis.

Saffron is generally considered safe in normal quantities, such as when used as a spice in cooking.

At higher doses, saffron may cause mild side effects, such as:

• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea

There is not enough evidence to support the safety of saffron during pregnancy. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid ingesting large doses of saffron, such as in supplements.

Saffron is usually sold as saffron threads, which are the stamens of the saffron crocus flower. It is also sometimes sold in ground form. The spice has a unique, complex flavor that is both earthy and subtly sweet.

Saffron is very expensive, so most people use it in small quantities. It is also suggested to use saffron sparingly, as its flavor can easily overpower a dish.

Ways to use saffron include:

• Add a small amount of ground saffron to baked goods like cakes and bread.
• Make a saffron latte by adding a few threads to the heated milk.
• Opt for saffron water in grain-based dishes, such as rice pilaf and Biryani, a South Asian mixed rice dish.
• Try Saffron in Milk-Based Desserts like puddings, panna cotta and ice cream
• Use the spice to enhance the flavor and color of puddings and bouillabaisse.