For centuries, chillis have been a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world. But did you know that eating chillis and hot sauces can also make you happy?
That's right! There are numerous health benefits associated with consuming chillis, including:
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Pain relief: Capsaicin, the compound that gives chillis their heat, has been shown to have pain-relieving properties, particularly for chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
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Improved digestion: Chillis have been shown to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut.
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Lowered risk of heart disease: The capsaicin in chillis has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Boosted metabolism: Chillis have been shown to increase metabolism and help with weight loss due to their thermogenic properties.
Now, let's talk about the endorphin rush. When we consume chillis or hot sauces, the capsaicin triggers a release of endorphins in the body. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that are responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being. Some people even describe the sensation as a natural "high."
According to Dr. Paul Bosland, a professor of horticulture at New Mexico State University and founder of the Chile Pepper Institute, "When we eat a chilli pepper, it's like running a marathon, our body has a similar response. Afterward, you feel really good."
But what about extreme chilli eaters? Those who take on the hottest peppers in the world, like the Carolina Reaper or the Trinidad Scorpion, may experience an even greater endorphin rush. This is because the intense heat from these peppers triggers a "fight or flight" response in the body, which can result in a surge of adrenaline and endorphins.
As Sean Evans, host of the popular YouTube series Hot Ones, says, "The hotter the sauce, the bigger the endorphin rush. It's like a roller coaster ride for your taste buds."
So, whether you're a fan of mild or super hot sauces, there's no denying the many benefits of chillis. From improved digestion to pain relief and a natural endorphin rush, chillis are a great addition to any diet.
Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-chili-peppers#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
- https://www.nbcnews.com/better/lifestyle/why-we-love-eating-hot-peppers-ncna890116
- https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2013/11/26/247257286/how-spicy-food-can-make-you-happy-or-miserable
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324810
- https://www.popsci.com/science/article/2013-12/how-peppers-makes-us-feel-so-alive/