Go Heavy On These Healthy Spices.

— -- This holiday season try adding some new spices to your favorite dishes -- they may help you live longer and healthier, according to medical reasearch.

"People who generally cook at home and use fresh spices tend to be healthier and have less disease," said Alison Gernand of the University of Texas School of Public Health.

Here are some spices with potential health benefits, according to Gernand:

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Other spices with medicinal purposes include cinnamon, which can help lower your cholesterol and blood sugar. Fennel can prevent gas, heartburn, and upset stomach.

ABC affiliate KTRK-TV in Houston prepared this report.