While there is no simple way to lose weight, adding these spices to your meals could help “support weight management”
A health expert has revealed that two spices could help aid weight loss efforts. Adding these to healthy, balanced meals could be one way to speed up results. Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for numerous serious health conditions, making weight loss a common goal for many.
It’s well-known that carrying excess weight can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver disease, among other health issues. Hence, health organisations and experts recommend finding safe methods to shed weight if necessary.
Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet are proven strategies for achieving weight loss. However, one expert has suggested that adding a couple of spices to your meals could assist in this process.
Abbas Kanani, a pharmacist at Chemist Click Online Pharmacy, advocated the consumption of cinnamon and turmeric for their potential weight-loss benefits as part of a healthy diet. Speaking to Express.co.uk, he elaborated: “Certain spices, like cinnamon and turmeric, have been studied for their potential to help regulate blood sugar levels.
“Cinnamon has been found to enhance insulin sensitivity, reduce insulin resistance and improve glucose metabolism. However, the effects may vary depending on the dose, duration of use and individual response.
“Some studies have suggested that curcumin may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation and enhancing pancreatic function and ginger has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce fasting blood sugar levels and enhance glucose metabolism.
“By promoting stable blood sugar levels, spices may assist in preventing spikes and crashes in energy levels, reducing cravings for sugary foods, and potentially supporting weight management.”
Nevertheless, he cautioned: “While spices have been studied for their potential effects on blood sugar levels, it’s important to note that the evidence is not conclusive, and more research is needed to establish a clear link.”
What does the research indicate?
Several studies supported Mr Kanani’s guidance. Research published in the Clinical Nutrition journal in 2020 discovered that taking up to two grams of cinnamon daily over a 12-week period decreased fat mass, body weight and body mass index.
The study stated: “The pooled results showed that cinnamon administration significantly decreased body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and fat mass.
“Greater effects on body weight were observed in subjects aged less than 50 years old and those with a baseline BMI of ≥30 kg/m2. Cinnamon supplementation significantly affects obesity measures. It could be recommended as a weight-reducing supplement in obesity management.”
A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Science in 2022 examined the effects of curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, on weight.
The research suggested that curcumin could potentially have anti-inflammatory properties and improve fat metabolism. The study stated: “In summary, curcumin is a promising natural bioactive compound which possesses numerous pharmacological activities.
“It shows multiple mechanisms of action and can affect cellular biochemical and physiological regulation. In pharmacies, there are more and more preparations containing curcumin recommended for the prevention of obesity.
“However, more comprehensive and definitive human studies should be performed to assess the possibility of using curcumin in preventing and managing obesity in humans.”
If you are concerned about your weight, you should speak to your GP.