Losing weight is a very daunting task for most people. Many are resorting to various slimming pills and regimens that may be bad for the health. However, here are spices that are deemed effective in promoting weight loss.
The good news is that they can easily be found in grocery stores, and even in your kitchen.
Around 2 in 3 adults and one-third of children and teens are overweight or obese. The main cause of excessive weight gain is energy imbalance. Too much calories are taken in and fewer calories are burned during physical activities.
The most common spice that can aid in weight loss is turmeric. Turmeric is an orange-colored spice that comes from a plant named Curcuma longa, and is from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Turmeric is also called "yellow ginger" and it has been widely used as a spice in many countries in the Middle East and South Asia. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is a natural antioxidant and is actually the biologically active component of turmeric and it promotes liver health. Hence, it helps the body metabolize fats by decreasing fat storage in liver cells.
Garlic can also aid in weight loss. Garlic is branded as the "stinking rose" but is actually a member of the family of lilies and closely related to onions and leeks. They contain phytochemicals that can break down fatty deposits in the body. It has cardio protective properties which aid in helping the person have a healthy heart and circulatory system.
According to a study, another Indian spice, Cumin, could help reduce weight gain. In a study, one group of women was allowed to eat three grams of cumin mixed into yogurt during their lunch and dinner. Another group was told to eat plain yogurt and the researchers found out that even though both groups lost weight, the ones who ate cumin lost more weight. This spice aids in the regulation of blood sugar to prevent diabetes and weight gain.
Cinnamon is a common spice used in every day cooking and baking. This spice is ideal to boost the metabolism and regulate blood sugar levels for people with diabetes and pre-diabetes. Furthermore, cholesterol levels and triglycerides are regulated by cinnamon.
Ginger has been one of the most famous spices throughout history. Ginger has gained popularity as a potent herb for almost 5000 years now and it has many properties that can help cure ailments. Research suggests that ginger has thermogenic properties that aid in boosting metabolism.
