Add Some Spice to Your Life with Chili Peppers

When you think of spicy foods, you probably conjure up images of tacos topped with jalapenos or a steak rubbed with cayenne pepper. However, the chili pepper is one spice that has properties that go behind its flavor pallet.

Recent research has found that chili peppers contain micronutrients that have health benefits that may help protect against chronic diseases, such as heart disease. Properties of the food have also been shown to be beneficial to your immune health as well, which is more important now than ever!

Chances are you have come across chili peppers in the produce aisle of the grocery store, but this is one pepper that you may not want to pass by. Recently, in four large studies, researchers compared the health outcomes of those who had eaten chili peppers and those who had not. The results were extraordinary, those who had eaten chili pepper had a 26 % reduction in death from heart-related causes and a 23 % reduction in cancer death.

Now you may be wondering how exactly you can take advantage of all these health benefits. If you think you may not be able to handle this hot pepper, there are many recipes that subtly incorporate this spice.

What Is So Special About Chili Peppers

Chili peppers contain a chemical compound called capsaicin, which gives chili peppers their spice. While you may find capsaicin in numerous health supplements, it is recommended to consume as a part of whole foods. Capsaicin works as an antioxidant to protect your body’s cells from damage from harmful compounds. The hotter the spice, the more capsaicin! Chili peppers also contain other micronutrients that help your body. Here are just a few:

Potassium– Chili peppers contain potassium, which helps to regulate your body’s fluid balance, lower blood pressure, and aid in lowering water retention.

Vitamin A – Typically found in beta-carotene form, Vitamin A helps aid in vision health and is immune-boosting.

Vitamin E – This popular antioxidant also helps to boost your immune system, as well as helps with regular cell functioning, and promotes skin health.

Capsaicin – the spice factor in chili peppers has anti-inflammatory properties as well as acting as an antioxidant.

Ways to Enjoy Chili Peppers

Incorporating chili peppers into your life can be simple; there are various dishes you can make that call for a little spice. And it is important to remember that these peppers come in thousands of varieties. Their spice level can range from mild to extremely hot, so do your research before picking them out.

Sautéed vegetables: Add some spice to your sautéed veggies, try adding banana peppers or jalapeños.

Puréed fresh chili peppers: Purée your favorite chili pepper with some olive oil, garlic, and onion. Puréeing chili peppers is a great way to make your own condiments to add as a topping to your favorite dish.

Dry Rub: Grab dried chili peppers from the local grocery store, chop, or puree them with your favorite spices and herbs and add to chicken or fish before cooking for the ultimate dry rub.

Your Turn to Take Action: What is your favorite way to eat hot peppers? Let me know in the comment section below!