Ignite Your Engine: 8 Spices and Herbs That Fire Up Your Resting Metabolism

3. Cinnamon (Cinnamaldehyde)

Cinnamon is beloved for flavor and aroma but it also contains cinnamaldehyde and other compounds that support steadying blood-sugar responses after meals, which can help with appetite control and metabolic balance over time. A sprinkle of cinnamon can make a bowl of oatmeal or cup of coffee feel more satisfying and may reduce the urge to chase sweetness later in the day. Use Ceylon or cassia cinnamon in cooking, desserts, and savory dishes like stews or roasted carrots. Be mindful that regular high intakes of cassia cinnamon could expose you to coumarin, a naturally occurring substance that can affect the liver in very large amounts; occasional culinary use is safe for most people. If you use cinnamon regularly for health reasons, discuss type and amount with a nutrition professional.

4. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Turmeric's star compound, curcumin, is known for anti-inflammatory properties that can support overall metabolic health when paired with a healthy lifestyle and regular activity. Curcumin itself is not absorbed well on its own, but pairing turmeric with black pepper (which contains piperine) and a little fat in a meal improves availability. Add turmeric to soups, golden milk, roasted vegetables, or marinades for a warm, earthy note. Culinary turmeric is generally safe, but concentrated turmeric or curcumin supplements may interact with blood-thinning medications and could upset digestion in some people. Choose food-first approaches when possible, and consult your healthcare provider before starting a high-dose supplement.