Did you know spices offer other benefits besides flavoring our food and drink? A compound called capsaicin, for instance, found in red chili, cayenne, and jalapeno peppers, has been shown to boost your metabolic rate and the heat generated by your body, causing you to burn more energy and, ultimately, more calories. One study revealed a 10 percent reduction in calorie consumption in meals that contained red pepper.

Ginger and piperine, the component of black pepper responsible for its pungency, stimulate receptors in the brain that boost heat production in the body and burn more calories. Ginger has also been shown to ease motion sickness and the inflammation associated with arthritis.

Other seasonings have health benefits beyond the burning of calories. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants that can help ward off some diseases and has also been found to decrease blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and triglycerides in people with type 2 diabetes.

Humble old oregano is an antioxidant powerhouse, with the most antioxidants of any herb. Oregano has four times more antioxidant activity than blueberries and 12 times more than oranges.

Turmeric has been linked to lowering the risk of dementia by blocking the production of harmful plaques and reducing inflammation in the brain. Garlic and rosemary have both been linked to cancer prevention.

So, the next time you're cooking, try adding some spices and herbs to your meals. There's more to them than just zest and savor.