Researchers have reported that spicy foods may be key to improving health and prolonging life, with multiple studies revealing amazing benefits of consuming spicy seasonings regularly and in moderation.
Key to prevention, improved health, and longevity
In addition to helping with weight control, these foods play a protective role against serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
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The main secret behind these benefits lies in the capsaicin compound found in chili peppers, which improves the bacterial balance in the gut, according to Dr. Brian Kwok Lee, a food science expert.
This compound promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria while limiting harmful ones, leading to increased production of tryptophan - the essential amino acid responsible for producing serotonin, which regulates mood, sleep, and digestion.
To make the most of these properties, experts recommend taking capsaicin in small doses of up to 0.01% daily, which is enough to stimulate the taste buds without causing stomach upset.
From an Eastern medical perspective, Dr. Ken Gray asserts that spicy foods stimulate blood circulation and improve metabolism, helping to resolve energy blockages and improve blood flow, thus promoting heart health and digestion. In addition to chili peppers, the list of beneficial spices includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, garlic, and ginger.
How do spicy foods affect weight loss?
However, experts warn against excessive consumption of spicy foods, as this can lead to unwanted side effects such as heartburn, gastritis, headaches, and digestive problems. They recommend moderation and variety, while also considering the Scoville scale to determine the heat level of each type of pepper.
It's worth noting that the benefits of spices are not a recent discovery, but rather date back thousands of years of culinary and medicinal experience across various cultures. In Mexico and Central America, chili peppers aided in the absorption of iron from corn, while Asian cultures used them for their antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. This underscores that moderation in consuming spicy foods as part of a balanced diet is the best way to reap their numerous health benefits.
