5 Benefits of Eating Chilli

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It’s spicy, it’s addictive! It’s a wonder how such a tiny pepper can sometimes make us desperate for water, but always keep us coming back for more.

What makes chilli so spicy? Capsaicin, an active ingredient found naturally in chilis, is what makes chilli spicy. It is a myth that chilli seeds are the one causing the spiciness, as capsaicin is actually found in the white membranes of the chilli. The actual flesh of chilli also contains capsaicin, but a lesser amount than the white membranes. Contrary to popular belief, there is actually no capsaicin in the seed, we think it’s spicy only because it is near to the white membranes.

So, whether you’re having it raw, fried or dried these little spicy peppers not only elevate the taste of your dish but did you know that it’s packed with lots of vitamins and health benefits as well? Read on to find out the 5 benefits of eating chilli!

 
1. Cardiovascular Support

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Consuming chilis have shown to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels which reduces the risk of the formation of blood clots, resulting in a lower risk of heart attack, stroke and deadly blood clots. They also help to break down fat deposits in blood vessels, allowing your blood to flow normally and healthily.

2. Lower Body Temperature

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Ironically, although chilis are spicy, capsaicin has found to lower body temperature by stimulating the cooling centre of the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, of your brain. Consuming chilli also releases heat from your body as you perspire, thus lowering your body temperature. This is why in certain countries like India, people enjoy eating chilli during summer.

3. Anti-Cancer Properties

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Chilis also contain antioxidants that have a positive effect on cancer. Studies have shown that they are able to shrink and reduce certain cancer cells, like prostate and colon cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. It hinders cancerous growths while stabilising your immune system.

4. Fights Flu, Cold and Fungal Infections

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The antioxidants in chilis not only has anti-cancer properties, but they also help in supporting your immune system and aids in fighting against viruses that may harm your body. Chilis also contain various vitamins like vitamin C and E, potassium, iron and magnesium that helps in regulating blood pressure, blood sugar levels and protects your body from free radicals which damage cells, causing illnesses and ageing.

5. Improves Metabolism

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Yes, you read that right! Incorporating chilis in your diet may improve metabolism which helps in weight loss. Chilis generate thermogenic processes in our body which generates heat. As our body heats up, our body uses energy thus burning additional calories.

Can’t take the spiciness of chilli? No worries because it’s possible to practice your tolerance! Just add a little more chilli to your diet every day and see the difference after a few weeks. Chilis are a great addition to your food as they not only add a unique dimension to the taste of your food but a tiny amount of them can help improve your health.

For the risk-takers, why not try Le Xin Catering’s new ala carte dish TMD (Tasty, Mouth-watering, Deadly) Spicy Chicken? Available here: https://www.foodline.sg/catering/Le-Xin-Catering-Group-Pte-Ltd/

We’ve also recently done a review on this zesty dish! Read it here: https://www.foodline.sg/Discover/tmd-chicken-tasty-mouthwatering-deadly/