Chili peppers are famously known for its hot taste. They are related to bell peppers and tomatoes. Some of its commonly known varieties are cayenne and jalapeno.
Primarily, chili peppers are used as a spice. They can be cooked or dried and powdered. Found in this superfood is a plant compound known as capsaicin, which is responsible for its numerous health benefits.
For those out there who are a fan of peppers, here’s the good for all of you. According to studies, the presence of capsaicin in chili peppers can benefit our heart and could be the secret to a longer life.
In a study published in the journal Plos One, researchers from the University of Vermont have found that consumption of chili peppers can lower the risk of death by 13%. This result has something to do with the capsaicin present in the peppers.
Capsaicin works as an effective painkiller and seemed to reduce the amount of inflammation in the body.
Dr. Benjamin Litternberg, co-author of the study explained that:
“The types of deaths that were lowest in the pepper group were deaths due to vascular disease, heart attacks, and stroke.”
The result of this study supports the findings of a 2015 study showing that consumption of hot red chili pepper can significantly decrease death. This 7-year-period study involved nearly 500,000 Chinese people. The results showed that those who eat spicy food three times a week have cut their risk of dying by 14% as compared to those who didn’t.
In a separate study conducted, researchers found that capsaicin s able to reduce blood pressure, lower blood cholesterol, and cut down on the tendency for blood clots to form.
Other Health Benefits Of Chili Peppers
Helps Boost The Immune System
chili peppers are a powerhouse of vitamins A and C which are powerful immunity booster. Due to its spiciness, it can help clear congestion by moving irritants and germs out of our body. Vitamin A supports the functions of the urinary tract, intestinal tract, and respiratory passages. These systems are the body’s primary defense again outside infections and germs, so supporting their strength and integrity with a basic building block of health, such as Vitamin A can help us avoid diseases. Meanwhile, vitamin C ensures that the body is strong and enjoying good circulation.
Helps Fight Inflammation
Capsaicin is responsible for the pungency of pepper, producing mild to intense flavor when eaten. This plant compound has been found to be a powerful anti-inflammatory. Capsaicin inhibits the action of certain peptides in the body that cause irritation and swelling. This has been an effective treatment for reducing pain associated with arthritis, headaches, sinus pressure and muscle and joint aches.
Helps Keep The Hair And Skin Vibrant And Strong
Aside from improving the immune system, vitamin C also create and maintain collagen which is an essential protein found in the skin and hair.
Help Improve Cognitive Functioning
Due to its richness in iron, consumption of chili pepper can help increase hemoglobin production and blood flow. With adequate amounts of iron and oxygen in the brain, we’ll be able to increase our cognitive performance and lower our risk of cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
A Natural Pain Reliever
The capsaicin content of chili peppers is now recognized as a natural treatment for osteoarthritis pain. Several studies showed that topical application of capsaicin has been beneficial in pain management for diabetic neuropathy.
Helps Prevent Cancer
Studies revealed that the powerful antioxidants found in chilies, as well as its capsaicin content, have positive effects upon cancer. Its high levels of antioxidants can protect our body from free radicals that cause chronic diseases. Due to the stimulating and anti-inflammatory effects of capsaicin, chili peppers can help stabilize our immune system and inhibit cancerous growth. Results of some studies found that peppers can reduce and shrink the presence of certain cancer cells, such as prostate and colon cancers.
