You may not be a fan of spicy food, but after reading the following lines, you might change your eating habits. Ground red chili pepper, or chili, has countless benefits, with nutrition experts describing it as a "nutritional treasure" beneficial for body health.
It is well known that chili adds a special flavor to your food, and many dishes cannot be enjoyed without the addition of chili. The best part is that chili has numerous health benefits, thanks to the active component in hot peppers called "capsaicin." According to the medical and health websites "Healthline" and "Medical News Today," capsaicin, which is one of the components of hot peppers or chili, helps in treating various illnesses and alleviating pain.
The site lists its benefits as follows:
- Pain relief
- Weight loss
- Reduced inflammation
- Treatment for colds and congestion
- Protection for the nervous system
- Enhanced antioxidant activity
**Antioxidants and Colds**
The antioxidants found in chili include vitamin "C," which also supports the immune system, vitamin "H," beta-carotene, choline, lutein, zeaxanthin, and cryptoxanthin. Red hot peppers are also a good source of vitamin "A." Some people use chili in home remedies for coughs and congestion to combat colds. A medical study from 2016 demonstrated that capsaicin alleviates cold symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and stuffiness when allergies or smoking are not the cause. Another study from 2015 indicated that chili might have antibacterial properties in lab tests, with scientists finding it combats group A Streptococci, the type of bacteria responsible for sore throats and other illnesses.
**Pain Reliever and Weight Reducer**
According to doctors and nutritionists, capsaicin, the active component in hot peppers, has pain-relieving properties. Capsaicin may help reduce pain by decreasing the amount of chemical that transmits pain messages to the brain. However, it should not be consumed in excess to avoid any damage.
In weight loss, red chili plays a significant role in weight reduction in several ways:
1. It affects satiety centers and suppresses appetite in the body by influencing thyroid gland secretions, which in turn affect the hormones adrenaline and dopamine responsible for appetite control.
2. It increases metabolic rates and speeds, especially in fat metabolism and burning processes.
3. It lowers and regulates blood sugar levels.
A mere 100 grams of chili can provide your body with the recommended daily intake.
**Various Ideas for Incorporating Chili into Your Meals**
- Add chili to your salad with a little olive oil to moderate its spiciness.
- Try adding it to other foods that may enhance its effectiveness and therapeutic power, such as green peppers and tomatoes rich in minerals and vitamins.
- Consider adding it to bean or lentil dishes, as they are high in protein and fiber, helping you feel full longer.
- Enjoy it with eggs, corn chips, or low-fat cheese to add calcium and protein that will increase satiety.
- Use dried chili as a spice added to your various meals, although it is preferable to consume it fresh for its richness in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
