Health & Life

The reason why many people will want to eat spicy peppers, the amazing benefits of peppers in cancer treatment

Scientists have conducted research that indicates that chili peppers have numerous health benefits.

8 March, 2024

Chili is a popular spice worldwide, but not everyone can handle its hotness. Scientific research has shown that chili powder can help support the improvement of cancer and cardiovascular disease risks. According to various studies, chili powder has many health benefits, including fighting against heart disease and cancer.

Cancer prevention

Chili powder contains several carotenoids, including beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These natural compounds are believed to reduce the risk of cancer. The reason is that these compounds play a role in combating oxidative stress – which can lead to cell and tissue damage.

Another study found that women with the highest levels of beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and total carotenoids in their blood had a 25-35% lower risk of breast cancer, according to Express. The active compound that creates the spiciness in chili, called capsaicin, can inhibit the growth and survival of cancer cells by affecting the expression of certain genes.

Improves cholesterol levels, fights against heart disease

When it comes to keeping the heart and circulatory system healthy, it is important to maintain low cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood that can accumulate in blood vessels and cause blockages.

Studies have found that capsanthin in chili powder can increase “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels and decrease “bad” (LDL) and total cholesterol levels. A 2-week study showed that mice fed a diet with chili powder and capsanthin significantly increased their HDL levels compared to the control group.

A 12-week study on 100 healthy adults also found that those who consumed food supplements containing 9 mg of chili powder carotenoids per day had significantly lower LDL and total cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol is one of the causes of cardiovascular disease and stroke risks.

These studies offer new hope for using chili to improve health

Prevents joint inflammation

Capsaicin in chili powder can help prevent or reduce symptoms of joint inflammation because this compound binds to receptors on nerve cells to reduce inflammation and pain. Experts explain that this can not only support patients with joint inflammation but also help reduce nerve damage and digestive issues. Chili powder is also rich in vitamin A, which supports the immune system, vision, reproductive abilities, and cell development.

Chili powder also contains rich amounts of iron and vitamin E, which have antioxidant effects, support skin health, and prevent anemia.

Although chili has many benefits, remember to consume it in moderation to avoid excessive heat and mouth burn.

Frequently asked questions

Chili powder is a rich source of carotenoids, including beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These natural compounds are believed to reduce the risk of cancer by combating oxidative stress, which can lead to cell and tissue damage. According to studies, women with higher levels of these carotenoids in their blood had a significantly lower risk of breast cancer.

Capsaicin is the compound that gives chili its spiciness. It has been found to inhibit the growth and survival of cancer cells. Additionally, capsanthin, another compound in chili powder, plays a crucial role in improving cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Maintaining low cholesterol levels is essential for heart health. Studies have shown that capsanthin in chili powder can increase “good” HDL cholesterol and decrease “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. This helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Yes, chili powder is a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for immune function, vision, reproduction, and cell development. It also contains iron and vitamin E, which have antioxidant properties, support skin health, and prevent anemia. Additionally, capsaicin in chili powder can help prevent and reduce joint inflammation and nerve damage.

While chili offers numerous health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation. Excessive consumption may lead to discomfort and mouth burn.