Here's How Black Pepper (Kali Mirch) May Help Boost Metabolism

A healthy weight loss requires a lot of efforts; not only in terms of workout and exercise, but also what you include in your diet. For effective and efficient weight loss, it is imperative to have a strong and healthy metabolism, as well as a good digestive system. These two aspects play important roles for weight loss. Indian kitchens are stocked with various herbs and spices that can easily be added to any weight loss diet. This is because most of these herbs and spices help in boosting the body's metabolism. A sluggish metabolism would only hamper the pace of your weight loss programme, even after all those efforts. Hence, adding a few metabolism-boosting foods to your daily diet could help you achieve your weight loss to a great extent.

One wonder ingredient that is replete with health-benefiting and weight loss-promoting properties is black pepper. Black pepper, or kali mirch, plays a crucial role in promoting digestion, which is important for weight loss. According to the book, 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing House, "Black pepper aids digestion and stimulates the appetite. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is traditionally used to aid detoxification, ease lung and bronchial infections, and relieve shock and stress."

The benefits of black pepper are aplenty. Black pepper is known to metabolise food because of its thermogenic effect. The body's rate to burn calories and the rate of thermogenic effect are directly proportional to each other.

You can make the most of this spice by either consuming in its raw form that is as whole, or in the powdered and crushed form. "Always buy whole peppercorns and grind as required; if pre-ground, they quickly lose their active properties. Use in stocks and marinades and grind liberally onto hot vegetable dishes and salads. Crush the peppercorns roughly and use to completely coat meat before grilling, or add to oil and vinegar for a spicy dressing," notes the book 'Healing Foods'.

Consuming black pepper at least once a day could possibly boost your weight loss efforts. In order to make it even more effective, you may even add honey and cinnamon to the tea as well.

Add black pepper to your curries or in your drinks to make the most of it. You can even add a pinch of black pepper to your desserts to add some flavour and nutrition quotient to them.

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