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

5. Black Pepper (Piperine)

Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that enhances absorption of other nutrients and plant compounds, such as curcumin from turmeric. By improving uptake, piperine can help the body get more benefit from foods and spices used together, which supports efficient use of nutrients and may indirectly complement metabolic function. Freshly cracked black pepper is an easy way to boost flavor and support absorption—try it with turmeric in roasted vegetables or blended into dressings. Culinary amounts are widely tolerated, though concentrated piperine supplements can affect how some drugs are metabolized. If you take prescription medications, ask your clinician whether increased piperine intake could matter for you.

6. Green Tea (EGCG)

Green tea and matcha are rich in catechins, especially EGCG, which have been linked in studies to modest increases in resting metabolic rate and fat oxidation when combined with caffeine and healthy habits. Enjoying brewed green tea or a small serving of matcha daily can be an easy habit that supports alertness and gentle metabolic lift without drastic measures. Drink it hot, iced, or as a latte with milk or a plant-based alternative. Watch caffeine if you’re sensitive, and avoid very high intakes if you have certain heart conditions or take stimulant-like medications. As always, food-first strategies are preferable to high-dose extracts unless guided by a clinician.