Stress can seriously interfere with digestion. The following spices can aid digestion anytime, but especially during high stress periods:

• Coriander eases gases and works to tone the digestive system. Use seeds powdered or whole, or garnish food with fresh leaves (cilantro).

• Cardamom reduces the mucus-forming effects of dairy products. Use seeds powdered or whole.

• Turmeric generally improves metabolism and helps you to digest proteins. Use the root ground. (It gives dishes a yellowish color and can stain clothes and china.)

• Black pepper stimulates the appetite and helps you digest dairy products. Use it freshly ground.

• Cumin helps reduce gases and generally tones the digestive system. Use seeds whole or powdered.

• Fennel helps prevent gas. Chew the seeds after eating, or add them when cooking vegetables that tend to produce gas. Use the seeds whole or powdered.

• Ginger aids digestion and respiration. It helps to relieve gas and constipation or indigestion. Use the root fresh or dried. (Caution: Ginger can aggravate bleeding ulcers.)

• Cinnamon naturally cleanses your digestive system. Use this spice powdered or in sticks.

• Nutmeg helps your body absorb nutrients from food.

• Clove also helps your body absorb nutrients. Use whole or ground cloves.

• Cayennehelps to stimulate your digestive juices and is known for having a cleansing action within the large intestine. It helps to relieve that feeling of fullness after eating a heavy meal.

• Licorice root acts as a general digestive aid. Take 2 to 4 capsules after meals.