Spicy spices have their supporters, but also their detractors. For some, they are an essential addition to most dishes, enhancing their flavor. For others, they are downright forbidden. But did you know that Cayenne pepper has a number of health benefits? Seasoning your dishes with it will not only improve their flavor but, above all, it will harmonize with the food, thus affecting the functioning of your body. How? Find out!
What is cayenne pepper?
The story of this spice should begin with deciphering its name. Cayenne pepper is not even a relative of the well-known black pepper.. The first part of the name was given to the pepper thanks to Christopher Columbus, who decided to bring black pepper to Europe, but in fact he transported hot peppers on his ships (of course, without knowing any of these spices beforehand). The second part of the name comes from the word quiínia, which in the original tipi language means nothing more, nothing less than hot pepper.
Cayenne pepper is nothing more than dried and finely ground hot, annual pepper.. It originates from Central America, and the oldest records of its occurrence come from Mexico. The cayenne pepper you have in your kitchen is an intense spice, and its heat is determined by whether or not the seeds were removed when ground. Interestingly, the scent of this spice usually doesn't suggest its intensity, and its color oscillates between red and light brown.
In addition to proteins, fats and carbohydrates, cayenne peppers also contain fiber and vitamin A. C, E and K, B vitamins and minerals such as zinc, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and magnesium. This is quite a rich nutrient composition, although it's important to remember that small amounts of the spice are usually used, and the nutritional properties given are based on an average of 100g of product.
Cayenne pepper's heat, measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU), is estimated at 30,000-50,000. For comparison, a jalapeno has 2,500, and the hottest chili peppers even exceed 3 million units. The question of heat, of course, is a matter of individual taste. Regardless, cayenne has been called a very hot pepper.
What are the health benefits of cayenne pepper?
Cayenne pepper used as a dietary supplement can benefit our health. Since ancient times, hot spices have been used to combat digestive ailments and to relieve pain of various origins. Today you will find cayenne pepper extract m.in. in supplements with an effect that helps relieve joint pain or lose excess weight.
The basic substance contained in cayenne pepper that influences its medicinal properties, is capsaicin. It's the main contributor to this spice's sharp flavor, but it's also a reliable thermoregulator. It has an irritating effect on the skin and can cause burns. However, used in moderation, paprika stimulates the body and maintains its energy levels.Hot peppers effectively stimulate the circulatory system, and faster blood circulation immediately after consuming capsicum helps to relieve pain in muscles and joints and also reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Capsaicin lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Moreover, it inhibits the formation and development of cancer cells, a fact confirmed by research. At the same time, researchers emphasize the need for caution in drawing too many conclusions – however, it is still a spice, not a medicinal substance that could replace treatment.
When you eat hot spices, you probably associate a feeling of heat all over your body. Indeed, Consuming cayenne pepper raises the body temperature, which also increases the rate of calorie burning and speeds up metabolism.. Hot peppers also regulate appetite and alleviate certain digestive ailments, such as bloating and stomach pain. They may also boost the body's immunity and help fight infections and colds.
In recent years ground cayenne peppers became a hit among people trying to lose weight, because nothing can support a healthy balanced diet combined with activity as well as capsaicin physical activity brings really good results. A popular way to lose weight with cyenne pepper is to drink water with it added. However, remember that this is not the safest method of supplementing hot peppers. If you want real results, It is better to include cayenne dietary supplements in your diet and also do not forget about spices when preparing your favorite dishes.
Cayenne also affects the nervous system, increasing levels of endorphins, or happiness hormones, and decreasing substance P (neuropeptide), which is responsible for pain perception. Therefore, by taking cayenne pepper supplements, we also support our brain.
Ways to use cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper can be used as an addition to sauces, dressings, salads, breadings, and marinades. But even among those who prefer spicy foods, the thought of adding hot peppers to every dish every day can be objectionable. Therefore, using it as a spice may not be the best approach, especially if you want to ensure balanced meals with the right amount of spice. it is easier to reach for dietary supplements containing cayenne pepper in their composition.
These products can be divided into single-component ones - containing in their composition only cayenne pepper - and multi-ingredient ones, which, apart from pepper, contain other active substances (most often with a slimming effect).
There is no maximum daily dose of cayenne pepper that can be taken safely, however, when taking supplements, always follow the instructions carefully. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific product. However, if you decide to season your favorite dishes with cayenne, always add paprika in reasonable amounts – a few pinches a day.Because overdose of capsaicin can damage liver, mucous membranes and the entire digestive system. Regular use of cayenne pepper also increases tolerance body to the substance, which means that with prolonged use the effects will weaken slightly.
Contraindications to taking cayenne pepper In any form, the use of ACE inhibitors (used to treat hypertension), medications that regulate bile acid secretion, and blood-thinning medications is contraindicated. Concomitant use of cayenne pepper with aspirin will weaken its analgesic effect and increase the risk of bleeding. Cayenne pepper should also not be combined with herbs such as ginseng, ginkgo or ginger.
Furthermore, capsaicin lowers blood sugar levels, so combining it with diabetes medications is not recommended. Asthmatics taking theophylline should also avoid it.
Summary
Cayenne pepper is an extremely valuable element of the diet – with great potential. This spice, native to Central America, has a beneficial effect on the circulatory and digestive systems. You can enjoy its benefits even if hot spices aren't quite your thing, because There are many dietary supplements on the market that contain cayenne pepper extract.. They support weight loss without affecting the taste of the food you eat, and the effect is the same. Therefore, it's worth considering hot peppers in more ways than just as a great culinary addition.
