Cayenne pepper is high in nutrients, low in calories, and may slightly perk up your metabolism. The heat from cayenne comes from a chemical compound called capsaicin, which is known for its pain-relieving properties. It affects the neurotransmitter that communicates pain signals to the brain thus, reducing the perception of pain.

For centuries, cayenne pepper has been used by many cultures around the world as a powerful medicinal agent in improving metabolism, healing ulcers, eliminating plaque from the arteries, and stimulating the peristaltic action in the intestines.

If you think that you can handle the heat, daily consumption of water with added cayenne pepper may provide a healthy boost. Here are the lists of the reasons why you should try it:

Vitamin Dose

Cayenne pepper is rich in vitamin A. One tablespoon of it can provide 44% of the daily value for vitamin A, which IS needed for a healthy immune system and sharp vision. Moreover, it can also provide you 7% of your daily need for vitamin C and 8% for your vitamin E requirements.

Plus, due to its richness in flavonoids, which are antioxidants, cayenne can help protect the cells against free-radical damage. According to studies, the consumption of foods rich in flavonoids has been linked to reduced risk of cancer, asthma, stroke, and heart diseases.

The pepper’s red color indicates the presence of beta carotene, which helps the immune system by fighting free radicals and may help protect against stomach, breast, and ovarian cancer.

Good Body Hydration

Our body is about 60% water which is needed for many bodily processes such as in nourishing cells, maintaining the body’s temperature, flushing out toxins, and aiding in digestion.

Drinking cayenne water in portions of your daily water contributes to proper hydration, thereby helping your body run at peak performance. Women should drink about 9 cups of total fluids per day while most men should drink about 13 cups per day.

Weight-Loss Help

The capsaicin in cayenne water could help you lose weight. In a study published in the journal “Appetite” in 2012, results showed that people who took capsaicinoids burned an extra 50 calories per day, had less belly fat and ate less than normal. Researchers noted that cayenne pepper may aid in weight loss by increasing energy expenditure and fat burning while reducing appetite.

How To Make Cayenne Water?

Start your supplement by adding an eighth to a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper in two to three ounce of hot water. Let it steep for about one minute. Drink the mixture.

Side Effects

Always remember that cayenne is generally considered safe. However, too much of it irritates the stomach and may cause abdominal pain. This may not be good for those with ulcers or other digestive problems.

Aside from this, capsaicin may also interact with certain medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or diabetes. It is recommended to see your doctor first before drinking cayenne water if you have any medical conditions or taking any prescription or nonprescription drugs.