Pros and Cons: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Spicy Peppers

When told he should avoid eating spicy peppers, he looked at me incredulously. What? How could I give up spicy peppers when I add them to everything I eat?! Yes, but you suffer from a burning sensation in your upper abdomen! Well, those who experience a burning sensation in the upper abdomen and various inflammations in the digestive system should avoid spicy peppers and spicy foods in general.

The spicy taste of the pepper is due to a substance called capsaicin. This substance helps in pain relief and generally makes one feel good, which is why people enjoy incorporating spicy peppers into their meals despite the intense heat that should deter them from eating it.

How does it happen? Capsaicin stimulates the pain receptors on the tongue. They activate the brain's pain center which releases natural painkillers called endorphins. These substances not only reduce the burning sensation but also alleviate other types of pain in the body. Furthermore, they infuse us with a pleasant feeling during the meal. Another advantage of this substance is its potential to reduce blood pressure. Research found that capsaicin activates a channel located on the walls of blood vessels such that its activation causes the production of nitric oxide, a gas that dilates blood vessels. Dilation of the vessels reduces the pressure on them, resulting in decreased blood pressure.

Capsaicin also aids in weight management. Often, during weight loss diets, the metabolic rate drops, surprisingly halting weight loss. In this case, red pepper with capsaicin can help because it raises the body temperature, thereby boosting metabolic rate and restarting the weight loss process, aiding in fat burning. An interesting study conducted in the United States involved two groups consuming the same food, except one group also consumed spicy red pepper. Indeed, this group lost more weight than the other. Spicy peppers also assist in digestion by stimulating the secretion of gastric juices. Those suffering from constipation might benefit from this.

Research revealed that a specific component in capsaicin causes cancer cells to undergo apoptosis—like a suicide of the cancer cell. However, it's important to note that this involves a very high quantity of the substance. Nonetheless, researchers warn that excessive consumption of spicy peppers may increase the risk of stomach and liver cancer. In conclusion, while spicy peppers offer many advantages, they should be approached with caution. To good health.

Eliahu Shechter is an iridologist and natural therapist