Ginger and related spices are thought to have particularly beneficial metabolism-boosting properties.

For instance, research shows that dissolving 2 grams of ginger powder in hot water and drinking it with a meal may help you burn up to 43 more calories than drinking hot water alone (25Trusted Source).

This hot ginger drink also may decrease levels of hunger and enhance feelings of satiety (fullness) (25Trusted Source).

Grains of Paradise, another ginger family spice may have similar effects.

A study of 19 healthy males reported that participants given a 40 mg extract of grains of paradise burned 43 more calories in the following 2 hours than those given a placebo (26Trusted Source).

That said, researchers also noted that some of the participants were non-responders, so the effects may vary from one person to another.

Cacao and cocoa are tasty treats that may also benefit your metabolism.

For instance, studies in mice have noted that cocoa and cocoa extracts may promote the expression of genes that stimulate fat burning. This appears to be especially true in mice fed high-fat or high-calorie diets (27, 28Trusted Source).

Interestingly, one study suggests that cocoa may prevent the action of enzymes necessary to break down fat and carbs during digestion, which could prevent the body from absorbing them and the calories they provide (29Trusted Source).

However, human studies examining the effects of cocoa, cacao, or cacao products like dark chocolate are rare. More studies are needed before strong conclusions can be drawn.

If you’d like to give cacao a try, opt for raw versions. Processing tends to reduce the amounts of beneficial compounds and add extra sugar and calories (30Trusted Source).