Good Lifestyle

In an era in which from time to time a food becomes fashionable on social networks for its alleged health properties, it is surprising that it is specific not to be viral. It is the spicy chili, also called pepper, chili, chilli or penucin, depending on the country. There are almost 50,000 varieties but they all have something in common: capsaicin, that component that gives them their itching but also makes them a "superfood." These are the many times unknown benefits of this ingredient that you surely have in your kitchen.

Can reduce cancer risk

According to studies by the American Association for Cancer Research, both capsaicin and antioxidants of Chile have anti -inflammatory properties that help combat the malignant cells caused by some types of cancer; such as prostate, breast, pancreas and leukemia. A report published in the scientific journal Anticancer Research He points out that this compound acts in several ways, from preventing the growth and survival of cancer cells until tumor suppressor genes action.

Improves metabolism

Capsaicin also active in our body the so -called "transitory vanillo 1 potential recipient channel" (TRPV1), whose main function is to combat inflammation. However, this process also stimulates brown fat cells, which increases the metabolic rate. This, combined with the thermal effect of the component (that "heat" you feel when you eat it), makes your metabolism accelerate, which could help you lose weight. In addition, it has been shown that spicy meals cause satiety faster.

Help to intestinal and digestive health

While it is true that there are people who for different reasons do not tolerate the spicy, the investigations indicate that, very contrary to popular belief, capsaicin can help stimulate gastric juices while regulating the pH of stomach acid, which, which Rather, it helps prevent and treat ulcers in the stomach. In addition, as the compound has beneficial effects on intestinal microbiome, it helps relieve and prevent digestive disorders such as: discomfort, gases, diarrhea and spasms.

Support cognitive functions

Chiles, in almost all their variants, have a high iron content, which helps improve blood flow and hemoglobin production in the brain. A report published in Molecules He points out that capsaicin is effective in delaying deterioration and neurodegeneration, processes that occur with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. This, in turn, helps improve cognitive performance. On the other hand, some capsaicin -based medications have proven effective to relieve headache and migraine.

Improves cardiovascular health

The activation of the TRPV1 channel by capsaicin also activates a mechanism that protects the cardiovascular system and helps regulate blood pressure, according to a study published in Nutrients . On the other hand, chiles are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that helps to relax blood vessels to improve circulation. They also contain riboflavin and niacin, which help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and prevent the damage of free radicals.

Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes

According to research, adding Chile to your recipes helps improve insulin sensitivity. This occurs not only thanks to the fact that capsaicin improves the metabolism of sugars and carbohydrates, which was already treated above, but also because this food has a high content of vitamin C, carotenoids and antioxidants that also have an important role in the regulation of insulin and blood sugar levels. This is important to prevent and treat type 2 diabetes.

Power the immune system

The combination of vitamin A, present in good quantities in most red chiles, with vitamin C, makes this "superfood" excellent for stimulating the immune system. Vitamin C helps absorb iron and care for the skin, while vitamin A is necessary for respiratory, intestinal and urinary health, which contributes to fighting infections. In fact, these components also have antifungal properties, specifically against pathogens and bacteria that cause intestinal inflammations.

It relieves pain

It was previously mentioned that capsaicin can help relieve headaches and migraine, but also helps reduce joint pain. This is why some ointments intended for topical relief of pain caused by arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, psoriasis or other nervous pains contain this component. This is due to its anti -inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce substance P (SP), a neuropeptide that acts by transmitting pain signals to the brain.