Metabolism is the body’s way of extracting energy from the food you consume; this process occurs at different rates for different people and can be affected by different foods. Thermogenic foods help increase the rate of metabolism by promoting thermogenesis, a process during which the body burns the calories from the food you just ate by converting those calories to heat and facilitating weight loss. There are myriad spices that are considered thermogenic and can help support better weight loss.

Here are a few:

1.   Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries weight loss. It contains capsaicin, a substance that stimulates thermogenesis and increases the body’s energy usage; it binds to heat receptors to help promote abdominal fat loss and fat oxidation. Cayenne pepper can also promote weight loss by acting as an appetite suppressant and reducing caloric intake.

2.   Turmeric

This bright yellow spice’s active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown effective for weight loss because it increases body heat to boost metabolism. The spice may have many additional benefits, such as promoting hormonal balance during menstruation and possibly even preventing Alzheimer’s disease. You can add turmeric to your diet in stews, curries, and soups or sprinkle it over nuts and veggies.

3.   Cinnamon

This spice has been shown to balance blood sugar, help to curb cravings and improve feelings of satiety. You can sprinkle it on oatmeal, mix in some cottage cheese or plain yogurt, or add to your coffee or tea. It’s also great for adding to marinades.

4.   Cumin

Cumin adds great flavor to food and may help burn body fat when it’s added to your daily meals. It can go in stews, curries, soups, marinades, rubs, and savory baked good.

5.   Black Pepper

Black pepper has been shown to boost plenty of fat-burning properties while blocking the formation of new fat cells, helping to prevent weight gain. It’s a common spice that can be added to almost anything.

6. Cardamom

Cardamom is a thermogenic spice that may help increase your metabolic rate and body temperature to help promote weight loss. It can be used to make homemade curries or added to baked goods to give them a citrusy spice taste.

Weight loss is the product of healthy activity and healthy eating. You’re your healthy eating more delicious—and more productive! —with some thermogenic spices. These are my absolute favorite, and I make sure to add them to as many meals as possible!