Metabolism is the process of converting eaten nutrients to energy to be used in the body. According to Vitaminstohealth.com, this energy ensures, “The body repairs its tissues, heals itself from injury, fights disease, and eliminates toxins and metabolic byproducts.” Everybody’s metabolic rate, the rate at which you burn this energy, is different. If you have a fast metabolism, you burn food quickly and can therefore eat more without putting on weight. A slow metabolism means you are more likely to store the weight as fat. If you’re trying to lose weight, certain herbs and spices can help speed up your metabolism.
Green Tea
The herbs used in green tea have a mild thermogenic effect. According to Vitaminstohealth.com, this causes the amount of energy used in heat production by the body to be raised by 3 percent to 4 percent. This means your metabolic rate is heightened, so your body burns fat more efficiently. Take 300 mg 30 minutes before breakfast and another 300 mg 30 minutes before lunch.
Kelp
The herb kelp affects your thyroid gland, which is a key player in metabolic function. Vitaminstohealth.com says the iodine contained in kelp increases your basal metabolic rate, the rate at which you burn fat when you are at rest. Scientific tests have emphasized that taking kelp will only help if you are currently deficient, and it won’t work for everyone. Check with your doctor first if you have a thyroid disorder. You should also check with your doctor before taking kelp if you have a history of high blood pressure or heart problems.
Hot Spices
Cayenne pepper, cumin and Tabasco sauce reportedly can increase your metabolism and fat-burning ability by up to 25 percent. Red pepper and hot mustard are also good condiments as they’ll cause you to be more thirsty, and drinking more helps when trying to lose weight because liquid fills you up with water instead of food.
Dandelion
Holisticonline.com says, “Dandelion may flush out the kidneys, boost metabolism, and offset a craving for sweets.” Try eating the leaves raw in a salad. Try dandelion tea: Boil 2 to 3 tsp. of the root in a cup of water for 10 to 15 minutes and drink three times a day.
Psyllium
This is the herb often used in weight loss pills and products. Take a teaspoonful of psyllium mixed well with a glass of juice or water before each meal. Psyllium husk helps the body to get rid of fats by cleansing your colon, rather than storing them as extra weight. Having regular bowel movements raises your metabolism. Because of its high fiber content, psyllium also helps you feel fuller fast so you eat less.
Cinnamon and Cumin
Cinnamon and cumin are both great spices to add to your recipes as they raise your metabolism levels and they're easy to include. Use in whole grain baked goods or sprinkle on cereal, oatmeal and yogurt. Half a teaspoon of cinnamon a few times a day can lower blood sugar and improve glucose metabolism, says thyroidinfo.net. It can also lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. While cumin has a thermogenic effect, it increases your inner body heat, thus raising your metabolism.
Member Comments