Just one teaspoon of cumin a day will facilitate fat burning. In the conducted research, this spice proved to be an effective and cheap way to improve weight loss. An additional advantage that we will derive from the use of this spice is the optimization of cholesterol levels.
The experiment was carried out by Iranians who decided to test the properties of a popular spice in traditional Arab cuisine.
An experiment by Iranian scientists
Volunteers who wanted to lose weight were divided into two groups. In each, the daredevils consumed 500 kcal less than the previous daily norm. Their meals were under the supervision of nutritionists. The difference was that members of one group had to eat a small spoonful of ground cumin throughout the day.
The lucky people who consumed the spice daily over three months lost 14,6% more body fat, while those in the second group lost an average of 4,9%. In turn, triglycerides in the first group were reduced by 23 points and with them the level of bad cholesterol decreased, in the second group the level of triglycerides decreased by only 5 points.
The positive effect of cumin on the body
- Phytosterols contained in cumin reduce cholesterol levels.
- Consumption of cumin promotes the improvement of metabolic processes.
- The spice helps to stabilize the work of the digestive tract, prevents diarrhoea, indigestion and flatulence.
- It stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, thanks to which vitamins and minerals are more efficiently used by us. The key to healthy weight loss is a properly balanced diet in which we do not run the risk of nutrient deficiencies.
- It supports the liver in removing toxic substances from the body, as it contributes to the increase of detoxification enzymes. As you know, it’s easier to lose weight when we cleanse our body. It is often recommended to perform at least one day of detox before starting a diet.
- Cumin also helps with immunity, anemia and viral infections. This is due to essential oils, iron and vitamin C, known for strengthening the immune system.
The use of cumin in the kitchen
Most often, cumin is added to dishes with legumes – beans, lentils, chickpeas or peas. It goes perfectly with almost any variety of rice and steamed vegetables. It is worth trying it in the form of an infusion with soothing and warming properties. For this purpose, pour boiling water over a teaspoon of cumin, let the tea infuse for up to 10 minutes.