Although eating spices alone won’t be a weight loss solution, consuming these six spices regularly, will help give your body nutrients it needs to jump-start the fat burning process. Try incorporating these spices in to your meals today!
- Turmeric has a a powerful agent called curcumin that has been found to act as a powerful anti-inflammatory in addition to being an anti-cancer agent by regulating the cell cycle. Turmeric supports the functions of the liver and has a bright yellow-orange color that adds flavor and nutrition to any meal.
- Cinnamon is known for its nice smells and warming affect. It also has been shown to control blood sugar levels and be effective in regulating insulin. It is full of antioxidants and helps reduce inflammation in the joints and blood vessels.
- Ginger is a powerful root that is great at fighting free radicals in the body. In addition to having a great taste, ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory and decreases pain and swelling.
- Cayenne pepper not only adds fire and spice to your taste buds, but has been proven to raise metabolism aiding in faster fat burning, all due to the powerful agent called capsaicin. Eating cayenne pepper with meals results in faster satiety resulting in consuming less foods. It is an effective anti-inflammatory and pain remedy.
- Cumin is used in many Indian and Mexican dishes and is loaded with antioxidants that boost metabolism and fight inflammation. Cumin contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Studies have shown cumin to support weight loss and a reduction in LDL cholesterol.
- Cloves is prized with having the highest antioxidant content (ORAC value) out of all the other spices and herbs. It is an antimicrobial and strong antiseptic. In addition to being an anti-inflammatory agent, cloves helps boost metabolism with its unique sweet and spicy flavor.
Written by Amy Fenzel. Who is Amy? Read below. And if you have a question, feel free to email her.
Hey there! My name is Amy Fenzel and I am married to my husband John and we have lived in Nashville, TN for the past year and a half. I am currently doing my Dietetic Internship at Vanderbilt University, and am a soon to be Registered Dietitian. My husband is a mechanical engineer and both of us graduated from the wonderful Virginia Tech! Some things I really love in life: Jesus, chai tea, warm weather, and sweet potatoes.
I have a huge passion for nutrition and health. I love how food is our medicine and how the foods we put in to our bodies makes a huge impact on how we feel and function every day. My goal is to work in the area of health promotion and disease prevention in a community or business setting. Cooking and baking are two of my favorite things, although I am not the best recipe follower- I hope to share some healthy recipes with you all and inspire healthy eating!
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