Here are some tidbits about common spices and seasonings to arm yourself with when fighting the battle of the bulge! They are easy to get, easy to use, and—best of all—bring your recipes to life!

Garlic stimulates metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and eliminates toxins from the body.

Cayenne‘s heat comes from a high concentration of capsicum, a substance that gives cayenne the power to fire up circulation, stimulate the body’s metabolic rate, and help clean fat out of the arteries.

Ginger raises body temperature and assists the body to burn 20 percent more calories, according to a study published in the Journal of Obesity.

Lemons are high in vitamin C, supplying four times more than oranges. Lemon juice can help liquefy fat so that it can be flushed out of your system faster.

Apple Cider Vinegar‘s main ingredient is acetic acid—a powerful nutrient that has been proven to stimulate metabolism. Look for brands of ACV that are certified organic, unfiltered,  unpasteurized.

Cumin packs a punch when it comes to both flavor and healthy benefits! Slightly bitter and peppery with a hint of citrus, cumin is a powerful liver detox enhancer.

Cinnamon consumption can boost metabolism, keep blood sugar levels in check, and derail Candida (the microorganism that causes yeast overgrowth in the body).

Parsley has been used as a blood purifier and natural diuretic. Its ability to rid the body of excess water and toxins makes it an ideal tool for weight loss.

Take advantage of these nature-given secret weapons!