Including this spice in your diet is good for your health

Deesha Bondre | May 23, 2019, 18:17 IST
Cayenne pepper is one of the hottest types of chili, even for Indians. Apart from its heat and spice, cayenne pepper is well known for its many benefits. So if you’re curious about the spice, read on.

Cayenne pepper contains necessary vitamins that include the likes of potassium, magnesium as well as vitamin A, E, C, B6, and K. According to Richard Schulze, N.D., cayenne pepper "cleans the blood, allowing hormonal signals to make their way unimpeded through your system, [resulting in] an enhanced immune response." It also contains phytonutrients, which makes a powerful remedy for preventing and treating a number of conditions and ailments. It's antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and a stimulant It can also strengthen the heart.
According to the American Nutrition Association, cayenne pepper is an "instant blood flow stimulant," meaning it promotes blood circulation and delivers other nutrients to cells more efficiently. Cayenne also stimulates our digestion (promoting waste elimination) and our liver, which makes nutrients available to our bodies and processes toxins.

But despite its largely positive impact on metabolism, it is not a weight loss cure. The reason it gets its reputation for boosting metabolism is that it contains phytochemical capsaicin, which has been shown to increase energy expenditure. Other studies have found that capsaicin can increase satiety (the feeling of fullness) and decrease one's appetite, resulting, for some, in weight loss.
But there are downsides. Cayenne pepper is a spicy spice. Hence, too much of it can easily irritate your mouth and stomach. If you're at risk for heartburn, it's imperative that you see a doctor before taking cayenne pepper, as it can potentially irritate the lining of your stomach and intestines.

Copyright © 2021 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.
All rights reserved.