Chili's are the second most common spice in the world. This is evident in the Caribbean where spicy food is synonymous to the culture. Hot peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, with the most abundant levels in red peppers.
Vitamins A and C are antioxidants, which help to prevent cell damage, cancer, and diseases related to aging. They also support immune function and improve respiratory problems by opening clogged breathing passages. Their anti-inflammatory benefits helps ease the pain of arthritis and improves asthma.
Vitamin K promotes proper blood clothing, strengthens bones, and helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
One particularly interesting fact about hot peppers is its source of fire: Capsaicin. Capsaicin acts on pain receptors, rather than taste buds. It is found in the white membranes and seeds of peppers, and helps to decrease cholesterol levels, boosts immunity, and reduces the development of stomach ulcers by killing the harmful bacteria that cause them.
Hot peppers stimulate the production of endorphins, which are natural opiates, effectively battling depression.
Capsaicin is used topically in creams to treat muscle pain, itching from Poison Ivy and Poison Oak, and Psoriasis.
No comments:
Post a Comment