What's the Deal with Dill?
By Sara Butler
Dill is an herb that pairs well with a variety of foods -- from chicken and seafood to soups and potatoes. But dill isn't simply good for its flavor, it's also good for a variety of other reasons. Here are a few fast facts about dill that may inspire you to use it more in your cooking.
The Nutritional Benefits of Dill
It might surprise you to learn that dill is a good source of calcium, which your body needs for healthy bones. It's also got riboflavin, which is needed for proper cell function and Vitamin C and Vitamin A that help to keep your immune system healthy and your eye health on point. While you may not eat dill in large quantities, sprinkling some on your food does deliver these much-needed nutrients -- and every little bit counts.
Dill Might Help Diabetes
Some researchers have found that compounds in certain herbs can help to lower blood sugar in people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. While more research is needed in this area, the results of animal studies are promising, and researchers are looking into replicating the results in human-based studies.
How to Enjoy Dill
Dill can easily be found in your store's produce section if you want fresh. But if you want to keep some dried dill on hand, find it in the spice aisle. If you opt for fresh dill, keep it loosely wrapped in a paper towel in a plastic bag that's kept in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for at least a couple of days. Dried dill can stay good for use for several months if stored in a cool, dry place in an air-tight container.
You can use dill in a variety of dishes, from egg-based dishes to salad to salmon. If you enjoy potatoes, it works well with them. Experiment and see what you prefer -- you'll reap the health benefits of dill along the way.
What About the Seeds
You may notice in the spice aisle that you can find dill weed and dill seed. While these come from the same plant, the dill weed is the leaf part of the plants that provide a lighter flavor. Dill seeds are more pungent and are slightly different in flavor, too, tasting a lot like caraway seeds.
Experiment with different herbs and spices. They're good for you and you never know when you might find something that becomes your new favorite flavor!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Buford, Ga.