Spices to naturally flatten your stomach

Did you know that spices, in addition to giving flavor to our dishes, have incredible health benefits? Herbs like turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves, not only enhance the taste of our food but also have slimming properties. They're a great tool to have if you're struggling to shed your holiday gains.

Read on to find out which ones to choose and how to use them.

Spices for a flat stomach

There aren't any shortcuts to fat loss and a tighter body. You're still going to have to exercise regularly and eat healthy. However, spices can be a great complement to that. Here are the most effective.

Cumin

Cumin contains filosterol, a compound that will help you get rid of bad fats by targeting them. It also plays a role in the regulation of cholesterol. Cumin will also boost your metabolism, which makes it a great tool to speed up weight loss.

Turmeric

As its name suggests, turmeric contains curcumin. This compound will make fatty substances more soluble and facilitate the digestion of fats. It will also help cells absorb glucose into the body.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is known to act on abdominal fat. In fact, it dislodges belly fat. It'll make a great addition to your weekly ab workouts if your goal is to have a slim, tight waist.

Cloves

When you have a craving or a sudden urge to snack, reach for the cloves -- they're a natural appetite suppressant. Chewing on a clove will calm your urge to eat and help you hold off until the next meal.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a natural fat burner. It helps you digest and prevents bloating.

Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds are often found in detox herbal teas. And for good reason: these small, fragrant seeds are excellent for eliminating bloating and boosting digestion. They will make you feel more full, which makes them a convenient tool for frustration-free portion control.

How do you use spices in your cooking?

Whether you're making something savoury or sweet, there's plenty you can do with spices. For example, you can add them to your vegetable soups or use them to add flavor to your salads and roasted vegetables. Spices also go very well with stews. Here are a few dishes you might want to consider:

• Turmeric carrot soup
• Lentil dhal with cumin
• Gingerbread
• A potato salad with fennel
• A cinnamon and clove infusion
• A beetroot salad with vinegar and cumin
• Mafé, a spicy Senegalese stew
• A vegetable curry
• A tasty, well-spiced broth...

You can also choose from a wealth of books to learn how to cook with spices!