Let’s be clear right up front – we’re not talking about any magic herb that instantly melts your stomach fat, like those adverts that you see flashing away on the sidebars of crappy websites. We’re talking about the sort of herbs and spices that the true culinary geniuses know form the basis of a good meal. But it’s not just using herbs to make your food taste better that can help. By adding specific herbs and spices to your diet, you can speed up your metabolism, reduce inflammation, suppress appetite and improve digestion.
Use Turmeric for Inflammation
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, and it has been found to have quite powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can lead to weight gain and other health issues, so reducing inflammation with turmeric can aid in weight loss. You can add turmeric to your diet by sprinkling it on vegetables, using it in soups or curries, or even as a tea.
Spice it Up with Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin, which has been found to speed up metabolism and suppress appetite. Adding cayenne pepper to your diet can increase the number of calories your body burns and reduce your calorie intake, leading to weight loss. Cayenne pepper is great in marinades, dressings, or even as a seasoning for roasted vegetables.
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Flavour Food with Cinnamon
Cinnamon has a sweet and spicy taste that has been found to help regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are stable, the body is less likely to store excess fat, leading to weight loss. A delicious way to get more cinnamon is by sprinkling it on porridge, yogurt, or using it in baking recipes.
Increase Fullness with Ginger
Ginger is a root spice that has been found to increase feelings of fullness, which can help with weight loss. Ginger contains a compound called gingerol, which has been found to stimulate digestion and increase metabolism. You can add ginger to your diet by grating it into stir-fries, smoothies, or even as a tea.
Suppress Appetite with Saffron
Saffron is a spice that is derived from the crocus flower. It has been found to have appetite-suppressing properties, which can aid in weight loss. Saffron contains a compound called crocin, which has been found to reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness. Saffron can be used in rice dishes, stews, or even as a tea.
Improve Digestion with Fennel
Fennel is a bulbous vegetable that has a licorice-like flavor. It has been found to have digestive benefits, which can aid in weight loss. Fennel contains a compound called anethole, which has been found to help relax the digestive muscles and improve digestion. Get fennel in your diet by roasting it, using it in salads, or even as a tea.
Reduce Cravings with Mint
Mint is a refreshing herb that has been found to reduce cravings for sweet and salty foods. Mint contains a compound called menthol, which has been found to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and reduce inflammation. Mint goes in practically anything from salads, smoothies, and you’d better not try and make a mojito without it…
