Spice It Up! Why You Need to Add Spice to Your Diet (and One Recipe to Kickstart Your Metabolism)

SpicesWho knew that just a little spice in your diet could go such a long way? Whether you’re looking to balance insulin levels (so you won’t have a ravenous appetite in the afternoon) or you’re looking for a better way to increase your energy (instead of depending on shots of espresso), spice is where it’s at. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best ones to add to your diet—plus a recipe you’ve got to try, tonight!

Eliminate Soreness With Ginger

When you’ve got sore muscles, it can be hard to get back to the gym right away. That’s where ginger can help! Studies from the University of Georgia show that adding some ginger to your morning smoothie can reduce the pain and aches you experience by 25 percent.

Add Cumin to Your Breakfast for Increased Fat Loss

According to a study done by researchers at Tuft University, there’s a component in cumin that helps you lose weight faster—thanks to its ability to store less fat in your fat cells. Add cumin to a bean salad, chili, or chicken. It’s the perfect spice to bring into your life!

Chicken With Mustard Seed and Coriander Sauce (to Die For!)

Raw chicken fillet with herbs and spicesWhen it comes to a weekly dinner recipe that will bring some spice mot just to the average chicken dish but to your weight loss plan, we’ve got it for you. In fact, this dish contains a few spices to get your metabolism cranking! Here’s how to do it:

·         You’ll need: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; salt and pepper to taste; 1 Tbs. olive oil, 1 Tbs. mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon coriander, ¼ cup dry white wine, ¼ cup warm water, 1 tsp. apple jelly, 2 Tbs. freshly chopped cilantro.

·         Once you’ve cleaned and dried your chicken, season it generously with salt and pepper.

·         Heat the olive oil until it’s hot, and then cook the chicken over medium-high (about four minutes on each side). You’ll finish cooking the chicken in a few minutes. 

·         Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

·         Next, cook the shallots for about two minutes, and then add the mustard seed, coriander and dry white wine.

·         Lower the heat, and finish cooking the chicken with the skillet covered (for about 20 minutes or so). Transfer the chicken to a serving dish, add the cilantro and jelly, and layer the chicken in the mustard seed/coriander sauce.

You can serve this dish with grilled asparagus, or a spinach rich salad. Or, skip the veggies and just enjoy this protein packed chicken dish on its own. It’ll bring the perfect amount of spice to your taste buds, and cause a kick start to your weight loss you’ve been wanting!