Amongst the ever-changing field of health and wellness, people are seemingly always on the search for natural ways to support their health and fitness goals.
There is one ingredient that is not frequently discussed but may offer significant health benefits, particularly when it comes to optimizing body composition. This ingredient is called Grains of Paradise which is derived from a plant.
This article will explore what Grains of Paradise is, its uses in medicine and cooking, as well as potential benefits for weight management and metabolic health.
What is Grains of Paradise?
Grains of Paradise refers to the seeds of a plant that is native to West Africa and has been used for many years in traditional medicine and as a spice for cooking.
It’s a spice that is related to ginger and they have a slightly spicy, peppery, and citrusy flavor profile, making it a unique addition to many dishes.
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What is Grains of Paradise Used For?
In addition to being used for cooking, Grains of Paradise has been used in traditional medicine for many years thanks to its impressive health benefits.
Grains of Paradise have been shown to soothe digestion, may reduce inflammation in the gut and throughout the body, and may have calming properties as well.
There is some evidence that suggests it may improve blood sugar regulation and have anti-obesity effects, however, the studies are limited on this and more research is needed.
More recently, Grains of Paradise is gaining attention for its potential metabolism-boosting effects.
Can Grains of Paradise Support Weight Management?
Although more research is needed to better understand the role Grains of Paradise may play in weight management, there is some research to support its metabolism-boosting effects.
Researchers have gathered that Grains of Paradise may contribute to fat loss by enhancing brown adipose tissue activity, which is the type of fat that plays a role in generating body heat and burning calories.
There is a particular study that was done in men that showed a reduction in fat mass and an increase in calories burned after consuming 10mg of the plant extract daily. However, this was only one study and more research is necessary (1).
Is There Research Supporting Grains of Paradise?
There has been limited research supporting consuming Grains of Paradise as a supplement, although it’s been safely utilized in cooking for many years.
However, there have been some reputable scientific journals that have published research on this supplement. For example, the British Journal of Nutrition indicates that the spice may increase energy expenditure and contribute to the oxidation of fat (1).
Additionally, the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology published a study that suggested Grains of Paradise helped reduce fat in a small group of individuals (2).
While these studies are promising, it's essential to note that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of Grains of Paradise on body composition.
Can Grains of Paradise Help Boost Metabolism?
There is a potential link between Grains of Paradise and increased metabolism, however, more research is needed.
There is some evidence to suggest that consuming Grains of Paradise can increase energy expenditure, meaning the body can burn more calories at rest and therefore boost metabolic rate.
Of course it’s important to remember the importance of a healthy lifestyle including regular physical activity and balanced diet, as no one supplement can be a game-changer without the basics in place.
Are There Any Known Side Effects?
As with any supplement, it’s essential to consider any potential side effects.
Most people can tolerate Grains of Paradise without any issues. However, some people may experience some mild digestive discomfort.
If you’re unsure if Grains of Paradise is right for you, it’s recommended to consult with your physician or Registered Dietitian before adding this supplement into your routine.
For anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding it’s advised to avoid incorporating this supplement into your routine, as there is not enough is known for this population.
What are Some Proven Methods to Improve Metabolism?
There are several factors that play a role in metabolism including diet, exercise, gut health, and also genetics.
Optimizing metabolism requires a holistic approach that goes beyond focusing on specific supplements or ingredients, although there may be certain supplements that can be a helpful addition.
Ensure regular movement that includes both cardio and strength training exercises. It’s also necessary to fuel your body with adequate protein, healthy fats, and high-fiber carbohydrates.
You should also ensure adequate, good-quality sleep to optimize metabolism and overall body composition, as inadequate rest can slow metabolism and contribute to weight gain over time.
Are There any Supplements That can Help Improve Metabolism?
While Grains of Paradise shows promise, it's important to recognize that no single supplement can replace the fundamental pillars of a healthy lifestyle.
With that being said, there are some supplements that can accompany a healthy lifestyle and may be able to offer some metabolic support.
Commonly researched supplements for improving metabolism include caffeine, green tea, and capsaicin. Grains of Paradise can also support metabolism, although more research is needed to better understand its efficacy.
If you do decide to incorporate a Grains of Paradise supplement into your routine, be sure to choose a product from a reputable brand with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners such as Naked Burn, our fat burner supplement.
