Why Spicy Food is Worth the Heat: Health Benefits of Chili Peppers

Eating spicy food is a part of many cultures worldwide. Despite the burn, people enjoy indulging in spicy, even very spicy foods.

But why is that?

Spice isn’t a flavor. It’s a common misconception to think of spiciness as a flavor, like sweet, salty, bitter, or sour.

The punch in hot peppers comes from capsaicin.

Red chili peppers are particularly rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which becomes vitamin A in the body. They're a great source of B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and iron, all of which help strengthen the immune system.

Of course, maintaining a healthy diet is key to weight loss, but hot peppers can assist with shedding pounds—the capsaicin boosts energy levels, enhances fat oxidation, and speeds up metabolism by increasing heart rate and body temperature.

Eating hot chili peppers can aid in respiratory inflammation, sinusitis, and colds. Capsaicin promotes the flow of fluids in the respiratory tract, thinning mucus, making it easier for the body to expel it.

Spicy foods might help combat the helicobacter pylori bacterium and other parasites in the digestive system. They prevent acid production, increase blood flow to the stomach, and encourage the production of gastric mucous cells to strengthen the digestive system.

For those with intestinal inflammation, celiac disease, ulcers, reflux, or heartburn due to weakened esophageal muscles: it's best to avoid spicy food, as it may aggravate symptoms and irritate the stomach lining.

Hot peppers possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding the body in fighting infections and preventing diseases. Some studies suggest that spicy food consumption can boost the immune system and aid in treating autoimmune diseases (conditions where the body attacks itself).

The body heat generated in response to spicy food enhances blood flow and helps eliminate bad cholesterol. It has also been linked to a decreased incidence of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

A key benefit of spicy food is the mood enhancement it triggers. In response to the heat and discomfort on the tongue, the brain releases hormones that induce a positive and good feeling, a way to counteract the pain.

However, excessive spicy food consumption can damage taste buds. It's important to consume in moderation.

Zohara Sharvit is an N.D. naturopath specializing in iridology, with extensive experience in therapy, consulting, and workshop facilitation. To book a workshop at no cost, call 073-2221290