Some like it hot!
Posted on October 27, 2011
If you’re not a fan of hot, spicy foods, you may be surprised to learn that they can provide more health benefits than was ever thought.
Weight loss: Spicy foods are said to help rev up your metabolism. Capsaicin (found in jalapeño peppers) speeds up the metabolism and can help the body burn calories faster. This is because Capsaicin increases your body temperature and contributes to an increase in your heart rate.
Heart Health: Hot peppers may help to improve heart health by improving the body’s ability to dissolve blood clots. Research has shown that low-density cholesterol (LDL or bad cholesterol) resisted oxidation for a longer period of time (which can clog your arteries) when chili was added to the diet, thus reducing the heart stroke risk. Capsaicin also fights inflammation, which has been identified as a risk factor for heart disease.
Cancer Prevention: Many studies have shown that regular consumption of chilies and curry decrease the risk of cancer. Scientists have discovered that Capsaicin attacks and kills cancer cells by attacking the mitochondria which are the powerhouses of cells.
Improved digestion: Even though spicy foods have a bad reputation for causing heart burn, it’s been shown that the spiciness can improve your digestion because it stimulates the increase of hydrochloric secretions in the stomach, which in turn will increase blood flow and even increases the mucous lining and combats ulcers. Capsaicin also helps to kill bacteria like H. pylori and may help to prevent stomach ulcers.
Improved sleep patterns: Researchers have found that people who regularly consumed spicy meals fell asleep more easily, had healthier sleep patterns, and even woke up easier and had more energy throughout the day.
Mood lifter: Chili peppers boost the level of endorphins and serotonin that dulls pain and give us a feeling of well being.
Improves breathing: Hot peppers can help you to breathe better by opening up clogged nasal passages and also act as an expectorant, which can help people with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, sinusitis, and other respiratory conditions breathe easier.
So add some spice to your life!