Adding certain spices to your diet can do more than enhance flavor—they can also help boost metabolism to lose weight! Here are some spices you can add to boost your metabolism and promote healthy eating habits.
- Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a compound that increases the heat your body produces which can help you burn more calories.
Meal Suggestion: Spicy Grilled Chicken Salad
Ingredients: Grilled chicken breast, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Preparation: Grill the chicken breast with a light sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber together. Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the salad and top with a low-calorie vinaigrette.
- Ginger
Ginger has thermogenic properties that can increase body temperature and boost metabolism. Ginger is also great for digestion!
Meal Suggestion: Ginger Stir-Fry Vegetables
Ingredients: Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and fresh ginger.
Preparation: Sauté the vegetables in a small amount of olive oil, then add grated fresh ginger and stir until the vegetables are tender. Serve as a side dish or over a small portion of brown rice!
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels and also enhances metabolism.
Meal Suggestion: Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients: Rolled oats, almond milk, a dash of cinnamon, and a handful of fresh berries.
Preparation: Cook the rolled oats in almond milk. Once done, stir in a dash of cinnamon and top it with fresh berries!
- Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help increase metabolic rate.
Meal Suggestion: Turmeric Quinoa
Ingredients: Quinoa, vegetable broth, turmeric, and chopped vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini).
Preparation: Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth with a teaspoon of turmeric. Once cooked, stir in the chopped vegetables and serve warm.
- Black Pepper
Black pepper contains piperine, which can also enhance metabolism and absorption of nutrients.
Meal Suggestion: Black Pepper Shrimp
Ingredients: Shrimp, black pepper, lemon juice, and a mix of steamed vegetables.
Preparation: Marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and a generous amount of black pepper. Grill or sauté the shrimp until cooked and serve with steamed vegetables!
- Garlic
Garlic can also boost metabolism by stimulating the nervous system to release adrenaline, which increases calorie burning.
Meal Suggestion: Garlic and Lemon Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, garlic cloves, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Preparation: Toss the Brussels sprouts with minced garlic, a little olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Roast in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
- Cumin
Cumin can boost metabolism and also improve digestion which can help you burn more calories!
Meal Suggestion: Cumin-Spiced Lentil Soup
Ingredients: Red lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, onion, and ground cumin.
Preparation: Sauté the onion in a pot, then add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth. Add a teaspoon of ground cumin and let it simmer until the lentils are tender.
- Cardamom
Cardamom is also one of the spices that can help increase body temperature and boost metabolism.
Meal Suggestion: Cardamom-Spiced Smoothie
Ingredients: Almond milk, banana, spinach, a pinch of cardamom, and a handful of ice cubes.
Preparation: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Enjoy this refreshing smoothie as a healthy pre-workout or post-workout snack!
Spice up your weight loss journey by adding these flavorful and effective spices to your diet! Incorporate these meal suggestions for healthy, delicious dishes that support your holistic weight management.
For more personalized tips on nutrition and holistic wellness For Every Body, consult with our Marie France experts. Book your FREE consultation today!
