Spicy Food Lovers Rejoice: Hot Peppers Are Incredible Sources Of Healing And Nutrition

That pot of red chili has been simmering for hours, it’s cold outside and you’re hungry. When that first spoonful of chili hits your mouth, wow, how spicy! Relax, it won’t hurt you at all. In fact, nutritional studies show that hot peppers, specifically capsaicin, the main spicy ingredient, is proving to be the Holy Grail of health-inducing and healing compounds. By the way, the crackers in your chili will take some of the sting out of it.

Capsaicin has so many benefits that I am in the process of writing an entire book on this amazing compound. For starters, while capsaicin is clinically proven to relieve headaches and sinus inflammation. Capsaicin may also be the key to a healthy heart. Due to its unique thermal heating action, capsaicin also increases metabolic activity promoting natural weight loss. However, one of the biggest benefits of capsaicin is its proven ability to increase circulatory blood flow, which prevents abnormal clotting that can lead to heart attack and stroke, especially as we age.

Another benefit is the reduction in blood pressure, no doubt due to improved circulation. Studies have also shown that the unusually low rates of colon and gastric cancer in Latin America may be directly related to the high dietary intake of capsaicin in that region of the world. Hot peppers are a mainstay in their diets and cooking.

Capsaicin is also a very effective pain reliever or pain reliever. By stimulating blood flow, especially in the area affected by pain, capsaicin promotes circulatory blood flow through its natural ability to conduct thermal heat while inhibiting nerve receptors that cause swelling and pain. Capsaicin also stimulates the production of endorphins in our body, which are natural opiate pain relievers. That’s why so many topical ointments and hot rubs contain capsaicin. Several studies focusing on gastrointestinal diseases have found that capsaicin also increases blood flow to the stomach and stimulates the production of digestive juices. One study found evidence that capsaicin also protected against stomach damage caused by excessive alcohol abuse. Hot peppers were thought to aggravate ulcers. Instead, they can help kill bacteria in the stomach that can lead to ulcers.

Eating hot peppers has been shown to increase the body’s heat production and oxygen consumption for about 20 minutes after eating. This is great news for weight watchers, as it means your body is burning extra calories, helping you lose weight. Bell peppers are also loaded with antioxidants, as well as vitamins A, C, and K. Other studies have shown that capsaicin reduces the amount of triglycerides (stored fat) in blood cells, as well as reducing fat deposits in the liver. And, good news for the ever-tempted and weight-conscious crowd: Studies from Oxford Polytechnic Institute found that eating hot chili peppers can boost metabolism enough to burn 45 calories out of a 700-calorie meal. I’ll have another Big Mac, please.

Everyone has their own tolerance for Cayenne, the most popular and potent source of capsaicin, which I will refer to from here on. The maximum daily dose has not been established, but a general rule of thumb for a 200-pound man is a suggested intake of four 500-milligram capsules three times a day. I take about half that dose with good effect, and I weigh 195 lbs. There is no imminent danger of toxic overdose, however some people have reported upset stomach and diarrhea. The capsules are easy to take, especially in large doses, but purists tend to agree that fresh cayenne will provide the broadest nutritional spectrum.

My own experience with Cayenne as a supplement, after starting a regimen of use about a month ago as of this article, it increased my energy levels and gave me a warm, healthy glow for an hour or so a few minutes after taking it. My general stamina, especially during a club workout, is definitely higher. Without a doubt, Cayenne stands alone as a near-miracle substance and is definitely worth further examination. Thank you for reading.