One secret to turning on a bright smile is to make your palate happy. So, turn up the flavor! Luckily, science now tells us that certain flavors are good for us. I mean really good for us. I’m talking about spices.

I actually think of spices as food with extra benefits, since these tiny treasures instantly transform ordinary dishes, plus they have truly impressive health-promoting powers. In fact, ounce for ounce, spices can have more antioxidant power than blueberries or red wine.

Sprinkle on some good-for-you palate pleasure with three of my fave spices:

Turmeric

Some call this earthy, pungent spice the “spice for life.” That’s because a natural compound in turmeric, called curcumin, has inflammation-reducing properties, potentially decreasing the risk of heart and lung diseases and other chronic conditions.

Prep tip: Whisk a pinch into egg whites to give them some complexity and richness.

Cinnamon

It’s a sweet spice, so it’ll impart intrigue to savory foods and more depth to sweet foods. Cinnamon provides a potent antioxidant punch to help manage blood sugar levels.

Prep tip: Mix a couple of pinches into pilaf or ground lean poultry burgers for a Middle Eastern panache.

Curry Powder

This hot stuff is actually a medley of flavors. Often including turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek and red pepper, the mixture is a health star. Mainly thanks to its turmeric, you can consider yellow curry powder brain food: It may help ward off Alzheimer’s disease.

Prep tip: Stir into creamy potato or tuna salad -- or whip right into mayo or plain yogurt -- for a robust flavor.

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