Black Pepper Whole/Ground

 The most common spice used in cooking is anything but common. Black pepper is the king of spices and will do much more for you than make you sneeze. The active ingredient, piperine, found in black pepper, increases the bioavailability of nutrients in food. It has been shown to stimulate the digestive enzymes of the pancreas, cutting down the gastrointestinal food transit time. Piperine protects against stress-induced gastric ulcers and is believed to have a protective role against acute pancreatitis. Black pepper is a rich source of manganese, iron and vitamin K. The spice provides relief from a cough and cold, increases libido, and has been known to treat the symptoms of vitiligo.

Grind a generous amount of black pepper over a lemon-doused bulgur salad, tabouleh, add a perfect finish to the potato and spinach curry, Saag aloo, or why not add a sprinkle, or two, to some strawberry ice lollies?

 Not only does the black pepper help you derive the most benefit from your food, but the wonder spice will also do wonders for your waistline as the outer layer of the peppercorn stimulates the breakdown of fat cells, keeping you slim while giving your body the energy it needs to make it through the day.