Reduce Wrinkles

By Kelley Herring

Do you want people to do a double-take when you reveal your real age? Then do this: Eat cinnamon and cloves.

Recent research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that these spices - which are often used in holiday goodies - not only provide antioxidants but also significant protection against the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).

And "AGE" is certainly an apt acronym. You see, AGEs trigger the body's defense arsenal and lead to inflammation and tissue damage. This results in lines on your face, inflexible arteries, and a host of other metabolic consequences.

So, how do you get the most out of these age-defying spices?

The first rule is this: The fresher the flavor, the more benefits. The researchers found a direct correlation between the phenol content in the spices and their ability to block AGEs. And since phenols are destroyed by light, heat, and exposure to air, keep your spices in a cool dark place for maximum potency.

Plus when you bake with these spices, make sure you use a safe sweetener too (i.e., one that does not spike blood sugar and promote AGEs), like erythritol or stevia.