Cumin, a member of the parsley family, is a spice used in Asian and Indian cuisines. It shows up in garam masala, curries, and rice and vegetable dishes, either as a powder or whole seeds.

But it may do more than add a warm, earthy flavor to your food.

A new study in the journal Food Science & Nutrition looked at the effect of eating 5 grams of black cumin seed powder daily. It showed that cumin significantly decreased bad LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. (One note of caution: This was just an eight-week investigation.)

Other spices may also help control or lower LDL cholesterol. A small study found that when people with high cholesterol ingest 5 grams of raw ginger daily for three months, LDL levels fall.

There are also indications that garlic, turmeric, and capsaicin have cholesterol-lowering benefits.

It sounds delicious — and smart — to add them to your menus.

Other ways to reduce your LDL level (aim for below 70 mg/dL) include filling half your plate with colorful veggies, eating fresh fruits for dessert, and  avoiding red meats and red processed meats (opt for lean poultry and fish such as salmon).

You can also enjoy healthy fats such as extra-virgin olive oil; eat 100% whole grains; and opt for sugar-free beverages.

For help spicing up your meals while bringing down your LDL cholesterol, check out recipes such as Sweet Potato & Butternut Squash Hummus, Savory & Spiced Quinoa Bowl, and When Way Black Lentil Soup in my "What to Eat When Cookbook."