True or false—spicy foods can boost your metabolism? The answer, believe it or not: true. Spicy foods have natural chemicals that can, in fact, give your metabolism a kick start. Adding ingredients like chopped red or green chili peppers when cooking your meals can make a difference. The effect is short term, but if you eat spicy foods often, these benefits can quickly add up.
According to studies reviewed by The New York Times, an average spicy dish, like a delicious bowl of chili, can temporarily increase your metabolism 8 percent over a person’s normal rate. So, what are you waiting for? Here are some delicious recipes from Eating Well that incorporate just the right amount of spice into your meals.
Add a spicy topping to your chicken. Try this recipe for Chicken Breast with Green Chile-Almond Cream Sauce. The cream will give your meal an excellent texture, and the fresh New Mexican green chiles, a fantastic flavor. At only 194 calories per serving this dish is as spicy as it is nutritious.
Who doesn’t love a hearty bowl of chili? Boost your metabolism with this Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili. With fresh helpings of cilantro, lime juice, and garlic, this dish is sure to catch your attention. Not to mention the smoky ground chipotle that gives the chili an extra punch of spice.
Great combinations make for excellent meals. Bring together fresh poblanos, steak, and scallions for these amazing Poblano & Steak Skirt Fajitas. These fajitas will brighten up your dinner with an incredible mixture of spices. Don’t be afraid to add on some hot sauce for an extra fiery bite.
Bring the spice to your dessert as well. Although the mixture may seem unlikely this recipe for Red Chile-Spiked Mousse will blow you away. The chile compliments the chocolate to perfection giving this light airy mousse a warm taste.
Now that you’ve been given the tools to spice up your life go for it! Neighbors supports your start to a healthier lifestyle. Neighbors Emergency Center offers 24 hour emergency care in Houston and Austin 365 days a year, and our board certified emergency physicians can treat all medical emergencies. We know you’re time is important, so we will treat you quickly and effectively so you can get back to doing what you love. If you are looking for a quality emergency room with little to no wait time, come to Neighbors Emergency Center.