Is Spicy Food Healthy?
Introduction
Spicy food has been a topic of debate when it comes to its impact on health. Some people believe that spicy food is harmful, while others argue that it is beneficial. In this article, we will explore the benefits of spicy food and whether it is healthy for you.
Spicy food makes you live longer
According to a 2015 research study by Harvard, people who eat spicy foods nearly every day have a 14% chance of living longer than those who consume spicy foods less than once a week. Regular spicy food eaters are also less likely to die from cancer and heart and respiratory diseases than those who eat spicy foods infrequently. Capsaicin and other bioactive ingredients in chili peppers have been found in previous studies to have anti-obesity, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anticancer properties. According to the study, 270,000 out of 474,000 participants (57%) consume spicy food less than once a week.
Spicy food makes you happy
Eating spicy can cause your body - the pituitary gland and hypothalamus specifically, to release endorphins. Endorphins can be known as a trigger-happy-chemical, which gives you an instant feeling of pleasure from head to toe. People crave the spiciness of food just the same way they crave something sweet or salty.
Spicy food boosts metabolism
Capsaicin in chili peppers has been shown to boost metabolism and promote weight loss. According to a study published in the Journal of Proteome Research, capsaicin consumption can increase energy expenditure, leading to weight loss. Capsaicin has also been found to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a promising treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Spicy food improves digestion
Spicy food can help improve digestion by increasing saliva production and stimulating the stomach lining. This can help reduce constipation and improve overall gut health. Spicy food has also been found to have antibacterial properties, which can help kill harmful bacteria in the gut.
Spicy food may lower blood pressure
According to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, capsaicin can help lower blood pressure. In the study, participants who consumed capsaicin showed a significant reduction in blood pressure compared to those who did not consume it. This suggests that capsaicin may be a useful treatment for hypertension.
Stop missing out! Start your spicy life
In a 2021 research study by Tums (5000 Americans, 100 people in each of the 50 states), 75% of respondents experience heartburn. Of those, 36% of respondents avoid eating spicy food as a result. However, heartburn is only one of the symptoms caused by gastrointestinal inflammation from eating spicy foods. Other symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea; therefore, we can expect this number to be higher. The key to enjoying spicy food without experiencing these symptoms is to start slowly and build up your tolerance over time.
Conclusion
Spicy food has many benefits that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. From increasing longevity to boosting metabolism and improving digestion, it is clear that spicy food is not only delicious but also beneficial to your health. So, stop missing out and start incorporating spicy foods into your diet today!