A diet that’s rich in spices can help you reduce your salt consumption, but a few spices also have special functions which can aid you when it comes to losing weight or keeping it stable without any big dieting efforts.
With the help of the best weight loss spices, you’ll manage to keep your metabolism at top speed, burn more fats and store less calories. Discover the spices that can have the biggest impact on your weight loss diet.
1. Cayenne Pepper
With a very high content of capsaicin, cayenne peppers are excellent for your metabolism. Capsaicin doesn’t just have a direct impact on your fat tissue, it also boosts your metabolic rate and can even contribute to decreasing your calorie intake. Multiple studies have proved capsaicin’s benefits for weight loss, so don’t be afraid to try this hot spice in a variety of recipes.
2. Ginger
Definitely one of the best weight loss spices, ginger also has a positive effect on your intestinal tract. The plant’s root has anti-inflammatory properties, but it can also act as a mild appetite suppressant when your biggest issue when it comes to dieting is impulse control. Use more ginger in your cooking or drink ginger tea in order to benefit from its metabolism boosting properties.
3. Cinnamon
The most common reason for fat storage is excess blood sugar, and cinnamon can make a big difference. Rich in polyphenols that help metabolize sugar much faster, cinnamon is definitely a spice to try when you’re trying to lose weight. It’s particularly useful when it comes to belly fat, and can also contribute to appetite control. Eat one quarter teaspoon of cinnamon with any meal that’s rich in carbs or sugar to benefit from its amazing effects.
More: 10 Scary Facts You Didn’t Know About Sugar
4. Turmeric
Used in traditional Indian cooking, turmeric is also one of the best weight loss spices. Unlike other spices that work on your metabolism or blood sugar, turmeric works directly in your liver, making it store less fat. It’s also great for your overall health, with a very high content of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that can also help with weight loss after giving birth.
5. Cardamom
With its spicy-sweet flavor, cardamom is definitely an acquired taste, but it’s been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine. While it may not help you burn fat or boost metabolism as much as other spices on the list, it includes another excellent benefit for high-protein diets. Cardamom tea can be used to control bad breath if you’re following a diet like Dr. Atkins.
6. Mustard Seeds
One of the best weight loss spices, mustard also has a proven track record when it comes to boosting your metabolic rate. It’s often recommended in place of more fatty condiments as part of a healthy weight loss diet, because it can actually increase your body’s calorie burning potential, with up to 45 per hour. Stick to mustard seeds instead of honey-based mustard varieties.
7. Coriander
Made from cilantro seeds, coriander has a positive impact on your intestinal tract, and it’s especially useful if your diet includes a lot of portion control that often leaves you hungry. It’s also a natural diuretic, helping you flush out toxins faster.
See also: Eating Habits Used by Skinny People
8. Black Pepper
Did you know that the common black pepper is one of the best weight loss spices? It’s all thanks to piperine, an active ingredients which can actually stop the formation of fat cells. That means black pepper doesn’t just help burn calories, it can also have a beneficial impact on your cholesterol levels.
9. Cumin
Used in traditional medicine to fight stress, cumin is one spice that helps relax you, while also improving your digestion. It can also contribute to keeping your blood sugar levels steadier, leading to less hunger pangs.
10. Garlic
Powdered garlic can be a good addition to your diet, but the fresh stuff is definitely among the best weight loss spices. Phytochemicals found in garlic have a direct fat burning effect, and it can also contribute to blocking the storage of fats, while aiding your intestinal tract metabolize carbs. Use fresh garlic in your cooking for the best results.