As you plan this year's vegetable garden, consider the "growing" evidence that suggests hotter pepper varieties can boost your health as well as your temperature.
Health Benefits of Capsaicin
Research shows that cultures known for their spicy cuisines report fewer heart attacks and strokes.
Why?
It's believed that capsaicin, an antioxidant found in the hot chili peppers used in many spicy dishes, may lower your risk of cardiovascular disease by:
- Improving circulation
- Decreasing irregular heart rhythms
- Reducing inflammation
- Reducing LDL cholesterol
Research shows that reducing inflammation also reduces your overall risk of cancer.
Capsaicin has also been shown to reduce pain related to migraine pain and osteoarthritis. And right here at Carilion Clinic, researchers are studying how topical capsaicin can be used as a non-opioid treatment for chronic pain.
Spicy Foods and Ulcers?
Hot peppers used to get a bad rap for potentially promoting ulcers, but studies now show that they can actually help regulate the unhealthy gut bacteria that play a role in developing heart disease or diabetes.
In fact, foods laced with jalapeno, poblano or other hot peppers have also been shown to improve metabolism, increase feelings of satiety and decrease caloric intake.
More Spicy Options
As research continues, we may find that other hot or spicy compounds have similar health benefits.
For example, we know that turmeric is a strong antioxidant. Spices like ginseng, black pepper, cinnamon, mustard seeds and ginger may also prove to be beneficial.
It's like anything else—you should eat hot peppers as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes:
- A balanced diet
- Regular exercise
- A consistent sleep routine
- Minimal stress
So if you’re game, check in with your primary care physician and grow some fresh chili peppers of your own to sprinkle over tacos, curry, scrambled eggs or an otherwise unassuming casserole. It’ll enhance the flavor, and maybe your health.
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This article was reviewed by Carilion Clinic's Dining & Nutrition experts.
