So you want a more radiant complexion and to lose weight?
Let us introduce you to two helpers who can help get you there.
Herbs and spices.
OK, this likely isn’t an introduction per se because you probably already know them well but did you know how much more they can add to your self-nourishment routine?
Indeed, herbs and spices can be the secret sauce as you begin planning your way to ‘becoming-more-radiant’ and weight loss. Think for a moment? How do you season your dishes? Could they do with a bit of a pep up? Herbs and spices don’t just add exciting flavours they can actually help you to burn more fat.
Here are three that you’ll definitely want to include:
1. Cinnamon
Did you know? Cinnamon comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree.
Photo by Tijana Drndarski from Pexels
Who doesn’t love a little cinnamon? Luckily, not only is it delicious, cinnamon is good for you. It contains a lot more nutrients than you might imagine and can also help to boost your metabolism. Not only that, cinnamon helps stabilise and lower blood sugar which is vital for weight management. Loaded with antioxidants, it’s anti-inflammatory, and is linked with reduced incidence of heart disease, cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. So when the barista asks you if you would like “chocolate or cinnamon?” Choose cinnamon. It will give you that gorgeous flavour with a few extra benefits thrown in. You can also make a delicious smoothie that tastes like dessert by combining soy/oat/almond milk with apples and sprinkling cinnamon on top.
Tip: Add some fresh apple quarters and a cinnamon quill to hot water for a delicious tea. Or, try popping a quill into your water bottle to sup through the day.
2. Mustard
Don’t ignore this spicy fella. Mustard seeds are purported to contain good levels of selenium (good news for our thyroid), phosphorus, calcium and antioxidants. What’s more, one study showed that, like cinnamon, mustard leaves might lower blood sugar levels helping to decrease insulin resistance. While it’s often used on foods like hot dogs it doesn’t have to be. You can add mustard spice or mustard seeds to a lot of different foods and side dishes that are brimming with goodness and flavour. Try loading up a veggie sandwich on whole-grain bread and flavouring it with a little mustard. Also, experiment with dipping some of your favourite veggies in mustard like a dip. You’ll be amazed by how good this can be.
3. Turmeric
Used in India for thousands of years turmeric’s bright yellow colour adds vibrancy and flavour to curries.
In addition, it’s become something of a superstar in the wellness arena due to its active ingredient known as curcumin.
Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory and potent antioxidant and that’s seen turmeric enter into the superfood group. Linked with lowered risk of heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s its anti-inflammatory properties also make it popular with arthritis sufferers. In addition, it’s been shown to be helpful for weight loss.
Indeed, turmeric’s list of benefits is long so it’s a worthwhile ingredient to use frequently and it also tastes great. A sprinkling adds a little kick to your veggie or rice dishes and of course, it’s a no-brainer to add to curries. However, it’s best accompanied by black pepper to help it be better absorbed. In fact, this study showed that piperine (the active compound in black pepper) increased curcumin’s bioavailability by 2000%. And this study’s preliminary findings found it increased body fat loss during 30 days of weight and lifestyle management.
Tip: Try the delicious Golden Milk recipe we have here.
Enjoy adding these to your food, it adds a bit more excitement to even the most bland dishes.
Thanks for stopping by,
Yours in health & happiness 
Main photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
