Whether you’re a spicy food lover or a neophyte, here are 11 reasons why you need to add more peppers and hot paprika to your diet.
- It’s Good for Your Metabolism
The secret to the magic of spicy food is capsaicin, a compound that increases your core temperature and causes your body to burn more calories. Studies show that eating spicy food, especially if it’s accompanied by an increase in your activity levels, can boost your metabolism and help you lose weight.
- It’s Good for Your Heart
Capsaicin helps dilate your blood vessels and promote circulation, which may lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. This is thanks to the fact that capsaicin lowers LDL cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol.
- It’s Good for Your Bones
The compounds in chili peppers and other spicy foods have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and improve your bone health. In addition, they can boost your immune system, and they’re also great for your digestion.
- It’s Good for Your Mood
The zingy taste of curry, black pepper, cayenne and other spices can help relieve tension and anxiety. They’re known for their ability to stimulate serotonin production, which can make you feel more relaxed and reduce your stress level.
- It’s Good for Your Joints and Muscles
Spicy foods are also rich in antioxidants, which can slow the progression of arthritis. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe muscle soreness.
- It’s Good for Your Gut Microbiome
Adding more spices to your diet will strengthen the bacteria that live in your digestive tract, making them healthier. This can help prevent diarrhea and bloating.
- It’s Good for Your Heart
Taking in more peppers and other spicy foods can help you maintain optimal heart health, according to new research. Researchers found that people who ate the most spice in their daily meals had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and vascular diseases than those who ate less.
- It’s Good for Your Bones
If you’re prone to bone fractures, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, you should try adding more peppers to your diet. It’s thought that capsaicin in peppers can reduce inflammation, which can speed up the healing process.
- It’s Good for Your Skin
The oils in peppers and other spicy foods can also help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause aging and skin cancer. In addition, they’re high in vitamin C, which can keep skin healthy and hydrated.
- It’s Good for Your Immune System
The spices in peppers and other spicy foods contain antioxidants that protect your body from viruses, bacteria and fungi. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can decrease your chances of developing allergies and asthma.
- It’s Good for Your Gut Microbiome
If you have a digestive problem or other medical condition, you should talk to your doctor before adding more spicy foods to your diet. Some people with IBS and other gastrointestinal issues may experience symptoms like abdominal pain or gas