Several people, especially women, are still awaiting a magic weight loss pill to help them lose the extra flab without having to work too hard! Several companies are developing miracle pills and miracle diets to meet this need, claiming instant weight loss. While none of these claims have been scientifically verified, nature has some of her own weight loss condiments. These are a group of spices and herbs with inbuilt properties that’ll help you speed up your metabolism and get your body to shed that extra weight.
Ginseng
Ginseng contains ginsenosides, which is said to boost immunity. There are two varieties – American and Chinese- linked to weight loss benefits. Ginseng contains caffeine, which helps to increase metabolism. It burns fat within your body, giving you some extra energy to spare! It is usually available as a flavor of tea or as a supplement. Children and pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised against ginseng; even others are recommended to take a break after a few months.
Peppermint
Mint is well known as a digestion aid. Even the scent of mint is said to suppress one’s appetite. Mint also reduces bloat and is also used to provide relief from all kinds of stomach trouble. It is sometimes served at the end of a heavy meal to chew on. You can also sip it in the form of peppermint tea or mint lemonade. Mint leaves can also be sprinkled over salads.
Cinnamon
This is probably one of the world’s most popular spices, widely used in various sweet and savory dishes across all cultures. It is actually the tree bark that is available throughout the year. The essential oils in cinnamon bark have many health benefits, including blood sugar regulation. It slows down the rate at which the stomach empties, keeping you fuller for longer and reducing overeating. Have it sprinkled over desserts or mixed into curries.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a favorite spice in every Indian household, used to treat various common ailments and skin problems. But besides these, turmeric is a great spice to help lose weight and improve overall health. Turmeric contains the active ingredient Curcumin, which suppresses fat-forming blood vessels. This way, your body fat decreases, resulting in a leaner body. Turmeric can be mixed into warm milk and in various meat and vegetable dishes.
Ginger
An aromatic spice, most of us can’t imagine cooking without ginger!! Along with adding a ‘zing’ to our dishes, the ginger root is rife with health benefits. Ginger is an excellent spice for all kinds of gastrointestinal troubles including getting rid of gas and bloating in the abdomen. Experts believe that the chemicals in ginger work mainly in the stomach and intestines, aiding digestion. Adding ginger to food or tea also increases satisfaction or satiety, making you eat less.
Cayenne Pepper
This hot spice contains capsaicin, which gives the pepper heat. It increases the flow of digestive juices and enzymes through the digestive tract, thus increasing metabolism. It also helps to relieve gas and aids bowel movement, eliminating toxins from the body. Cayenne pepper is becoming increasingly popular as a weight loss aid; and the hotter versions are considered more effective.
Cumin
A nutty spice, cumin seeds are often used for tempering in Indian dishes or as part of a curry powder combination. Cumin has several uses beyond flavoring, and it is an excellent source of iron. Research shows cumin contains the compound thymol, and it can stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes that aid digestion. Traditional Indian households have been known to drink water boiled with cumin seeds, especially after a heavy meal.
Of course, the benefits of these herbs and spices can only be reaped with an otherwise nutritious diet and sufficient exercise and sleep. You can take your pick from these, having many options to choose from; after all, variety is the spice of life!
