Put down the salt shaker and add flavor to your dishes with these fat burning spices!
Cinnamon is a super spice that reduces blood sugar and LDL cholesterol (It lowers LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) by 7 – 27% and total cholesterol by 12 -26%). It can also boost metabolism and has been shown to prevent the metabolic syndrome commonly seen in pre-diabetics. All you need is a teaspoon a day, so don’t go too crazy with it because it also contains a chemical called coumarin, which can lead to liver damage if consumed in very large amounts.
Mustard – the spice, not the bright yellow condiment – is also said to have thermogenic properties, helping to book metabolism and burn fat more quickly. Researchers from England’s Oxford Polytechnic Institute say one teaspoon can speed up the metabolic rate by almost 25%.
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which helps suppress appetite, burn fat, and increase metabolism, causing the body to burn more calories, according to research from Purdue University. Studies performed by the Journal of Obesity also found that the spice increases fat oxidation, “ramps up energy expenditure, and stimulates activity by the sympathetic nervous system”- which help the body to shed excess weight.
Turmeric is found in many Indian dishes. It improves digestion and curcumin, a phenol found in turmeric, helps keep fatty tissue at a minimum.
Ginger is a super food that has many health and fat loss benefits. This spice can suppress appetite, aid digestion, remove toxins and raise the temperature of the body to boost metabolism. It even reduces bloating! Buy fresh ginger and grate it into your recipes! Ginger tea is also great for sipping on, which you can find by itself or in green tea varieties.
Black pepper is one spice you shouldn’t cut back on. It is said to help improve digestion, boost metabolism, and burn fat at a faster rate – as much as 8% for several hours. Freshly ground black pepper works best, and it tastes better, too!
Dandelion helps cleanse the body through its natural detox and diuretic properties. Dandelions also rank in the top four vegetables of nutritional value, according to the USDA. Look for it in tea form!
Cumin helps the digestive process and production of energy. It may also boost the immune system, help those with asthma, arthritis, kidney disease and colon cancer.
Fresh herbs and spice are always best! Buy herbs as you need them (dandelion, mint). Wrap them in damp paper towels, place in a plastic bag, and refrigerate or store in plastic containers. They should last a few days to a week.
Sometimes you can’t find fresh herbs, but dried will do just fine! Store dried herbs and spices in airtight containers, away from heat and light (over the stove is the worst spot). Dried herbs should last for about a year. Whole spices, like cloves or cinnamon, keep much longer.
