Small doses of curry could help protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease -- at least that’s the effect in rats. How it translates to humans has yet to be determined. A new study provides more evidence that culinary spices indeed play a role in good health. For example, studies have shown that cinnamon can improve glucose (blood sugar) and cholesterol levels in the blood in people with type 2 diabetes and those fighting high cholesterol. Cloves, bay leaves, and turmeric have also shown promise in improving diabetes.