The first time I heard the term “thermogenic foods,” I thought, “Okay, that sounds really… expensive.” I soon discovered that I couldn’t be more wrong.

Thermogenic foods are essentially intense fat burning foods and spices that help increase metabolism. Who knew you could burn fat during or even right after eating? Well, you certainly can with these 15 kitchen staples.

o Hot Peppers: These flaming hot spices can speed up your metabolism.

o Garlic – These are my favorites. I put garlic in everything. Spices like garlic are good for your heart and their weight loss properties make them great thermogenic foods.

o Ginger – Another spicy fat burner that you can add to almost any type of food or drink.

o Parsley – Said to be good for the circulatory system. It definitely keeps the blood flowing.

o Berries: Naturally sweet bite-sized treats that reduce calorie absorption without sacrificing nutrition or increasing cravings.

o Cabbage: This high-fiber vegetable isn’t called a longevity food for nothing. If it helps you live a long time, then it has to be good for you, right?

o Lemons – Adding even a tablespoon of lemon juice to your water, salad, or soup will help stave off cravings and keep your insulin levels in check.

o Brussels sprouts: Thermogenic foods like Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins and minerals that help increase your metabolic rate.

o Cauliflower and broccoli: These calcium-rich vegetables not only taste good, but are also great sources of thermogenic properties.

o Green Tea – It doesn’t matter if you prefer it hot or cold. Have a glass before any meal and your body will definitely thank you.

o Apple cider: known for its properties to reduce weight, apple cider or apple cider vinegar are essential in any diet.

o Mustard – This is a great alternative to hot peppers. Meals prepared with mustard are also excellent thermogenic foods.

o Cinnamon: Smells good and tastes even better (fat-burning properties are just a bonus).

o Vinegar – Often used in the treatment of some metabolic disorders, vinegar and other acid-tasting aids will also speed up your metabolism.

o Water – Something as mundane as drinking ice water keeps you hydrated and your metabolism briefly speeds up as your body tries to warm it up.

You don’t have to travel far to get any of these thermogenic foods. You can easily find them at your local grocery store or even in your own kitchen cabinets. Have fun with them, use them freely in the preparation of your daily meals and start living a long and healthy life.