7 Herbs to Help You Lose Weight

Rebecca Lewis August 11, 2014

Herbs and spices have long been used as natural medicines. Most of them have unbelievable healing abilities that make them a major ingredient in many health products, particularly supplements. Vast research proves that certain herbs and spices can really promote health in significant ways, and may even aid in weight loss. Yes, WEIGHT LOSS.

Here are 8 popular herbs and spices that have been scientifically proven to be beneficial in weight loss:

Turmeric

Turmeric has been the centre of so many health news and studies in recent years due to its wide-ranging benefits, such as better heart health, improved cognitive function, and lower risk of diabetes and cancer. And all these unbelievable health wonders are due to the active compound this yellow-orange spice contains, called ‘curcumin’. Such compound has also been shown to aid in fat loss. It helps combat unwanted fat by helping fat cells to self-destruct through the process of apoptosis (cell death). Curcumin attaches to fat cells and encourages them to shrink and contract by suppressing the blood vessels needed to form fat tissue. Furthermore, it has the ability to reduce insulin resistance and reduce blood sugar levels which both contribute to weight gain.

Ginger

This popular spice is known for its ability to relax and smooth the intestinal tract. Research has also shown that ginger may boost metabolism and suppress our appetite, leading to weight loss. In a 2008 study published in the Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan, led by L.K. Han, a Japanese researcher, ginger was found to create ‘thermogenesis’ a process that stimulates metabolism. According to the University of Maryland Medical Centre, we should limit our daily intake of ginger to 4 grams per day to avoid side effects such as diarrhoea and heartburn.

Mustard

If you’re trying to lose weight but don’t want to cut out flavour from your diet, make mustard a part of it. This delicious seed can increase your metabolic rate by up to 25%. You can burn additional 45 calories per hour just by eating 3/5 of a teaspoon of mustard seeds every day. Aside from being very low in calories, mustard has zero carbs and zero fat content.

Dandelions

In addition to its antioxidant properties, this herb has the ability to slow the digestive system, which makes you feel fuller for a longer period of time. Dandelions are also rich in fibre, as well as beta carotene and vitamin K1, and many other vitamins and minerals.

Cinnamon

This holiday spice is highly effective in regulating blood sugar, which as mentioned, has an effect on weight gain. Furthermore, it is a potent metabolism booster. Research shows that the metabolism of glucose is increased by 20% when cinnamon is consumed.

Cayenne Pepper

Capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat, may help promote weight loss by decreasing calorie intake, shrinking fat tissue, and lowering blood fat levels. It also helps fight fat build-up by triggering beneficial protein changes in your body.

Cumin

Cumin is highly beneficial for digestion and energy production, and may improve glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. The spice has a long history of medicinal use, and has also been found to enhance memory and provide potent anti-stress benefits.

These herbs and spices don’t only make dieting delicious; they also help you see amazing results fast!