Nutrition Corner - Red Chili Pepper/Cayenne
Primary health benefits of red chilis are similar to those of all chili peppers! Be sure to include a diversity of peppers - spicy and sweet - in your regular nutritional routine. According to some research, capsaicin can promote nutrient absorption in the body, maximizing the advantages of other nutrients from the diet.
1 TBSP/15 Grams
Calories: 6
Water: 88%
Protein: 0.3 grams
Carbs: 1.3 grams
Sugar: 0.8 grams
Fiber: 0.2 grams
Fat: 0.1 grams
Increase Metabolism
Capsaicin can improve metabolic rate and fat burning, which could help in weight management
Promote Heart Health
May help decrease cholesterol and blood pressure, boosting heart health and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease
Pain Relieving
Capsaicin contains natural analgesic effects, which provide relief from pain and inflammation in illnesses such as arthritis and muscular soreness
Improve Digestion
Promotes the release of gastric juices, which aids digestion and prevents digestive disorders
Immunity Booster
High in vitamin C and antioxidants which boost the immune system, helping the body to fight off infections and diseases
Mood Enhancer
Capsaicin can cause the production of endorphins, or “feel-good” chemicals, which can boost mood and reduce stress
Supports Respiratory Health
Warming qualities can help remove inflammation and support respiratory health
Antibacterial Properties
Capsaicin has antibacterial properties, which may aid in the fight against some bacteria and fungi
Promotes Healthy Skin
High antioxidant levels may promote healthy skin by shielding it from damage caused by free radicals
Helps Nutrient Absorption - According to some research, capsaicin can promote nutrient absorption in the body, maximizing the advantages of other nutrients from the diet. Red chili peppers contain a variety of important vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin C
An important anti-oxidant in healing wounds
Vitamin B6
Plays a role in energy metabolism
Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)
Essential for blood clotting and healthy bones and kidney
Potassium
An essential dietary mineral that serves a variety of functions, potassium may reduce your risk of heart disease
Copper
An essential trace element, important for strong bones and healthy neurons
Beta Carotene
Which your body converts to Vitamin A
Capsanthin
A bioactive plant compound in red chilis, is responsible for their rich red color and is a powerful antioxidant
Researchers in 2018 reviewed studies on the effect of capsaicin on metabolic syndrome. In this condition, a person has several risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as diabetes, unhealthy cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and obesity. The research included studies involving both animals and humans. It found the following:
Diabetes: Studies suggest capsaicin has several actions that have an anti-diabetic effect. These include reducing insulin resistance, which makes it easier for blood glucose to get inside cells from the bloodstream. Capsaicin also helps prevent obesity, which is an important risk factor for diabetes.
Cholesterol: A number of studies suggest capsaicin can decrease total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins, known as “bad cholesterol.” They also indicate it can increase high-density lipoproteins, known as “good cholesterol.”
High blood pressure: Studies show capsaicin reduces high blood pressure through several benefits. These include releasing substances that widen blood vessels, suppressing an enzyme that narrows blood vessels, and stimulating increased urination, which reduces blood pressure by helping remove excess fluid.
Obesity: Several studies report that capsaicin promotes weight loss by increasing appetite satisfaction and preventing the development and accumulation of fat cells.
The authors of the research concluded that the benefits of Capsicum for metabolic syndrome could reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. More research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness in humans, however.
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