SourceThe popularity of spicy food has skyrocketed over the past few decades. In fact, 62 percent of Americans say they truly love their spicy cuisine. But hot food can do more than simply add some heat; it can also add flavor and texture. And even better, there are a lot of health benefits that have been linked to eating spicy meals, mainly thanks to the capsaicin found in these dishes. Read on to find out what some of them are.
Weight Loss
Studies have indicated that diets high in spicy foods are associated with reduced calorie intake and weight loss. Capsaicin’s thermogenic and metabolic benefits mean you can burn fat and calories more quickly. Scientists found that it raised metabolic rate by up to five percent.
A good example of this is how researchers have shown that people who eat meals seasoned with red chili peppers end up eating roughly 75 fewer calories than those who eat food that is not seasoned.
Good For Your Heart
Fewer cardiovascular diseases occur in societies where spicy food is the norm. Capsaicin, found in hot peppers and sauces produced with them, is thought by scientists to help lower chronic inflammation, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Capsaicin’s ability to speed up the pace at which cholesterol is broken down is another way it combats the buildup of cholesterol in the body.
Reduce the harmful effects of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) on your body by chopping up a chili pepper and adding it to your meals or even putting some jalapeno poppers on grill from time to time, as this will lower your risk of heart disease.
Reduces Inflammation
Dishes that are hot and spicy might also help reduce inflammation. There is proof that capsaicin can aid in the battle against intestinal low-grade inflammation. This type of inflammation has been linked to obesity.
Capsaicin can fight inflammation in more places than just the belly. Capsaicin cream that you can buy over the counter can help with pain from arthritis to fibromyalgia, for example. So imagine what enjoying it in your meals on a regular basis could do.
Boosts Your Mood
Many people who like spicy food say it gives them an endorphin rush. The nervous system is where to look for the answer to this phenomenon. The spicy burning feeling makes your brain release chemicals that make you feel good to counteract the pain. This may make you feel better and boost your overall mood. Although it won’t ‘cure’ depression, it can alleviate some of the symptoms (for depression, it’s always wise to seek a doctor’s help).
Fights Cancerous Cells
It almost sounds too good to be true: a chemical that kills cancer cells without many or any bad side effects. If you like spicy food, it sounds even better. And it appears to be true.
Researchers in the UK have found that the capsaicin in hot peppers can make cancer cells destroy themselves. Commonly found in foods that make you sweat, the compound attacks the harmful cells without hurting the good tissues nearby.
