Feel The Heat And Get Healthier: Benefits Of Hot Chilli Peppers

Eating chillies isn’t something new for most Asians. In fact, often enough, we kind of craving for it with our meals! It’s a good thing that we do too, for chillies happen to have specific health benefits tied to them, and researchers keep unearthing new evidence of their health bonuses, prompting more and more people around the world to enjoy spicy foods on a daily basis. The health benefits of chillies come from a chemical called capsaicin inside them. It’s believed that the hotter the chilli, the better it is for our overall health!

Not a fan of chilli? Here are a dozen reasons why you should start getting used to it.

1. Chillies may aid in digestive issues such as healing an upset stomach, reducing intestinal gas, curing diarrhea and acting as a natural remedy for cramps.

2. Chili peppers are very high in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant important for wound healing and immune function.

3. A good source of Vitamin B6 which plays a role in energy metabolism.

4. High in Vitamin K, also known as phylloquinone, is needed for blood clotting and healthy bones and kidneys.

5. It has potassium, an essential dietary mineral that serves a variety of functions and may reduce your risk of heart disease when consumed in adequate amounts.

6. Contain decent amounts of copper, an essential trace element, important for strong bones and healthy neurons.

7. Red chili peppers are high in beta carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A.

8. Contains ferulic acid, yet another antioxidant that may help protect against various chronic diseases.

9. The main carotenoid in red chili peppers, capsanthin, is responsible for their red color. Its powerful antioxidant properties may fight cancer.

10. Lutein (abundant in green or immature chili peppers), is linked to improved eye health.

11. One of the most studied plant compounds in chili peppers, capsaicin is responsible for its pungent (hot) flavor and many of its health effects.

12. Rich in sinapic acid, or sinapinic acid, an antioxidant that boasts a variety of potential health benefits.