Amid the deluge of nutrition news, one finding may seem a bit out of the blue: Chili peppers can lower your risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer and promote longevity. The reason is capsaicin, the compound that gives the spice its heat.
Capsaicin triggers your brain to release dopamine and endorphins, two chemicals that create a mild feeling of pleasure and help you feel less pain. And that’s not all: This amazing plant compound also helps your body break down fat deposits in your blood vessels and metabolize them for elimination, which reduces the likelihood of heart attack or deadly blood clot.
Another potential benefit of chili peppers is their ability to keep your lungs healthy by stimulating the growth of new bronchial cells. They can also help relieve the symptoms of sinus allergies, like a runny nose and congestion. Peppers are rich in vitamin C, which is essential to healthy lungs, as well as beta-carotene and provitamin A, which prevent oxidative damage from exposure to UV radiation.
While these benefits are encouraging, it’s important to note that these findings come from observational studies, which lack specific health data on participants and may be influenced by other factors. It’s also worth noting that the studies used different types and amounts of chili pepper, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
The spiciness of chili peppers is actually a defense mechanism developed by some plants to protect against pests. The pungency is a way of suppressing a fungus that invades the fruit through punctures made by insects and kills its seeds before they can be eaten by birds or scattered by wind. Peppers can also defend against insect attacks by releasing compounds that cause their skin to burn and scar, as well as releasing the chemical capsaicin that makes them hot.
A recent study also found that consuming chili peppers can improve your mental health by stimulating the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and seroton, which are responsible for feelings of happiness and joy. In addition, the high levels of vitamin A and C found in this food are known to protect against aging and support mental clarity.
The best part about chili peppers is that they are not only healthy, but they can be quite tasty as well. And when you’re craving something spicy, reach for the chili peppers instead of turning to processed junk foods that will do more harm than good. You may be surprised by how satisfying even just a small serving of this nutritious veggie can be! The spiciness of chili peppers also boosts your metabolism, which can help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid weight gain. It’s also rich in copper and iron, which are important for fighting anemia and promoting red blood cell formation, especially for pregnant women. In addition, this food is an excellent source of folic acid, which plays a crucial role in developing new cells in your body.