In our recent article “5 Top Foods that Boost Your Metabolism”, one of the items listed is capsaicin. It’s the active ingredient in red chilli peppers and other hot peppers that causes the burning sensation that we either love or hate.
It turns out that there are many other hot pepper health benefits, beyond increasing your metabolism to help you lose weight. And they are all due to capsaicin.
Hot Pepper Health Benefits
While you may not be a fan of spicy foods, after you check out this list of benefits, you might want to give them another try.
Good for Your Digestive Tract
If you don’t like hot foods, it’s likely due to a certain reaction you get that would make you think that they are bad for your digestive system. While you should seek medical advice to be sure, chances are that your reaction is because your system hasn’t adjusted to managing the capsaicin.
Capsaicin has proven antimicrobial properties, antioxidants and other chemicals that help your digestive system. It can help with easing an upset stomach, reducing gas, treating diarrhea and has even been shown to be beneficial for ulcers. So don’t let that first reaction fool you,
Improves Your Heart Health
Capsaicin lowers bad cholesterol, reduces lipid deposits and opens up blood vessels. The result is less chance of blood clots and heart disease, and better overall heart health.
It’s a Pain Reliever
For joint pain, capsaicin reduces the levels of the chemical that sends signals to pain receptors in the brain. It has also been shown to help in similar ways with shingles, neuropathy and other aches and pains.
Supports Your Immune System
If you’re looking for more help to fight off colds, flu, fungal infections and even allergies, start eating hot peppers. They are high in antioxidants, beta carotene and have anti-inflammatory properties, all of which work to help your immune system do its job.
Even if you avoid hot peppers, there may be other ways to get their benefits from your diet. The nutritional consultants at your closest Herbal One location can help you choose the right foods for a healthy, balanced diet to support long-term weight loss.
To learn more about strengthening your immune system, check out our article “How to Boost Your Immune System”.