Eating healthy doesn’t have to be plain and boring! Spices and herbs not only add flavor to food, they can also help boost our metabolism, regulate blood sugar, help reduce inflammation and more.
Here are my top five spices that you should include in your diet:
Tumeric
Tumeric contains curcumin, which is a very potent anti-inflammatory ingredient. Tumeric also helps to reduce fat and boost our metabolism. According to the European Journal of Nutrition, “an antioxidant in turmeric suppresses inflammatory messaging in many cells, including pancreatic, fat and muscle cells. This action can help curb insulin resistance, high blood sugar, high cholesterol levels, and other metabolic conditions resulting from obesity.”
Cinnamon
Cinnamon can help to lower blood sugar. In addition, it may also help to reduce weight because by controlling insulin levels, speed metabolism and suppressing appetite.
Ginger
Ginger has a lot of health benefits and has been shown to increase metabolic rate and decrease appetite.
Black pepper
Black pepper can boost our metabolism. It also contains antioxidants and help to our digestion. According to WebMD, piperine, which is found in dried black pepper, may help prevent new fat cells from forming.
Chili powder and cayenne
Chili powder contains capsaicin, a natural stimulant that has been shown to have fat-burning properties. According to WebMD, capsaicin may affect metabolism by raising body temperature, which uses up more energy. In addition, cayenne is a powerful metabolic and fat natural burning spice.
References:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/247386-turmeric-weight-loss/
http://www.webmd.com/diet/peppers-health-benefits