Rev your metabolism and burn fat with these delicious staples.
If you think a diet plan is synonymous with plain, boring meals, think again. On the Fat Flush Plan weight loss and healthy lifestyle eating is anything but bland. A typical menu is filled with on-the-go lunches, savory favorites, satisfying smoothies, and unique twists you’ll love—packed with such delicious flavors you’ll feel like every meal is an indulgence.
Here are 5 of my favorite spices that can be sprinkled from breakfast to dinner and everything in between. These picks are powerhouses to assist with reaching and maintaining your weight loss goals. Plus, they’re delightfully tasty!
Cumin
This peppery biblical spice is a wonderful taste enhancer and catalyst for weight loss. The latest research out of the Middle East, where cumin is popularly consumed, shows that one teaspoon of this spice boosts weight loss by 50%, most likely due to its ability to raise body temperature, thereby heating up metabolism. This is one great spice for hummus, beans, chili, and any variation of a Mexican food dish.
Ginger
According to an Australian study, ginger can cause a metabolic boost of as much as 20%. It both energizes and cleanses while providing warmth. Ginger revs circulation and promotes healthy sweating, encouraging detoxification of the body. It supports liver function, clears up clogged arteries and lowers serum cholesterol levels. It is effective for motion sickness and nausea. Ginger lends itself well to cookies (I just love ginger snaps), as well as puddings and custards, and is quite tasty on salmon. Ginger tea settles the stomach.
Mustard
Mustard is a must in my kitchen. In the dried, powdered state or as a prepared mustard spread, it not only gives a burst of tangy spiciness, but helps flush fat by kicking metabolism into high gear. Study data from Oxford Polytechnic Institute shows that mustard spikes metabolic rates by 25%. By adding mustard to a meal, participants burned at least 45 extra calories during the next three hours. Try just a pinch of dried mustard in your homemade salad dressings, mayo and pickles. I really love it on my deviled eggs.
Cinnamon
I only recommend Ceylon cinnamon because most commercial cinnamons contain the liver-damaging ingredient coumarin that can be harmful to health when taken in excess. Cinnamon in general, however, is most helpful in controlling blood sugar levels so that insulin spikes are kept in check, and can even reduce the glycemic impact of a meal by nearly 30%. As a delicious metabolism booster, cinnamon can rock desserts, lamb, coffee, tea, and smoothies.
Turmeric
Turmeric is widely known for its high antioxidant content, thanks to its curcumin content, turmeric’s active ingredient. It is the superstar of the popular curry spice blend. But this natural anti-inflammatory really stands out because it can help thin and decongest bile so your body can metabolize fat more efficiently. Turmeric can be added to curries, beans, meat stews, fish dinners, omelets and soups. It is the best spice for a barbecue because turmeric added to meats before they are grilled reduces toxic compounds up to 40%.
May your meals—and your life—be colorful, enriching, and exciting.
