Dt. Aisha Khan

Spices are a huge hit in Indian kitchen. They are used to increase the flavor and taste but also provide immense medicinal benefits. They are known to have therapeutic and anti-bacterial properties. Spices consist of high amount of iron, minerals, magnesium and calcium.

Spices are also known to aid in weight loss. So, lets discuss some commonly found Spices that helps in weigh loss.

Cinnamon: It is very well known for weight loss and is rich in antioxidants. Cinnamon is good for boosting our metabolism and reduces the bad effects of high fat food. Cinnamon also have an effect on blood glucose level which leads to weight loss.

You can have a Cinnamon tea by boiling a cinnamon stick in water for several minutes, add lemon to it after straining the tea and enjoy the benefits.

Fennel: It contains vitamins A,C and D and are high sources of fibers. Being high in fibers it helps us stay fuller for longer period of time and prevent craving. Fennels are also known to reduce fat stored by improving the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Soaking fennel seeds overnight and drinking the water empty stomach will cause weight loss.

Fenugreek: They contain galactomannan, a water soluble fiber which helps in reducing the accumulated fat and proper digestion with elimination of toxins.

Soaking fenugreek seeds overnight and drinking the water empty stomach is proven to be beneficial for weight loss.

Black Pepper: They are also known as “king of spices”. They contain a chemical called as piperine which helps to increase our metabolism and reduce the accumulated fat. They are also known to increase the level of good cholesterol.

Turmeric: Turmeric is known to have many medicinal properties along with weight loss. It help regulate the blood sugar and prevents insulin resistance. Turmeric also prevents the storage of fat in our body.

Cumin: These are good for reducing fat from stomach and also helps in digestion process. A study proved if we add cumin to our meal everyday it help reduce 3 time more fat then usual.

It also help removing bad cholesterol from our body.

Cayenne pepper🌶-They are very loved by people for the spicy kick they provides. They are very helpful in weightloss process as they leads to fast metabolism and warms up body nature.

Just sprinkle some of it on your food and enjoy its benefits.

Cardamom: It is a digestive stimulant and has diuretics properties. It helps boost the metabolism and burn the fat accumulated in abdominal region. cardamom is also known to control blood sugar level.

The festive season has already started with lots of parties, feasts and family gathering. These day is very commonly to munch on sweets, fried food and enjoy sugary drinks. Due to family pressure it becomes very difficult to resist eating these. The fear of weight gain and guilt of eating such food keeps us awake all night.

But no need to worry here are some tips to keep in mind to avoid weight-gain during festival season:

·         Eat something light before attending the party. It’s never a good idea to attend a party on an empty stomach. If we starve ourselves then we will experience anxiety and tension and will tend to eat more. Eating something light or healthy before reaching the venue help you feel full and help avoid unnecessary binging on unhealthy food.

·         Try to choose healthy food alternatives when served to you. Instead of fried chips you can have something else like salted almond or cashews. Instead of fried food try to choose baked or steamed food. Try avoiding fried fish fingers and spring rolls and instead choose relatively healthier starters like salads, corn, tikkas, and kebabs. So, be attentive while filling your plate in buffets.

·         Remember to go easy on the alcohol and keep a check on your water intake and hydration level after a round of drinks. It will prevent boating and water retention in your body.

·         keep a check on your liquid calories. In the company of relatives and friends we tends to drink excessive sodas, juices and shakes that contain high amounts of sugar and not to mention the empty calories resulting in weight gain. Thus, one must avoid sugary, pre-packaged beverages. You can make lemonade or fruit smoothies at home as a better alternative.

·         when you proceed for main course try to avoid carb as much as possible and include salad and high fibre food in good amount.

·         Understand your body signs and avoid eating anything if your stomach feel full. Most people tends to overeat and have desert even after they are full which can turn out to be a big mistake.

·         Most importantly after enjoying the party food do remember to burn calories by an effective workout. You can go for walk or do home workouts. It will help you feel active and guilt free and will also help avoid feeling lethargic.