Many people hate spicy food while others can’t get enough of it. When some go out for Mexican or sushi, they ask the chef to make their order as hot as possible. To them it is a way to boost the flavors and make the dining experience truly memorable. On the other hand, others enjoy food bland and predictable. They don’t see the thrill in torturing their taste buds and having to chug water throughout the entire meal.
However, it seems like everyone’s heart may appreciate a little added punch according to a recent study. Presented at the 243rd National Meeting and Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in San Diego, researchers explained how chili peppers may be packed with heart-healthy benefits.
The study focused on the substance that gives chili peppers like jalapenos, habaneros and cayennes their spicy zing, capsaicin, part of the family of capsaicinoids. Prior research has found this substance to have multiple health uses including the ability to lower blood pressure, reduce blood clots, decrease cholesterol and even treat arthritis when in topical creams. But is it possible it could also be good for the heart and help fight against the one cause of death in the world?
The team of researchers think so. Using hamsters in the study, they found that the substance has an effect on genes and other mechanisms that play a role in the health of blood vessels and arteries that control blood flow to the heart.
“We concluded that capsaicinoids were beneficial in improving a range of factors related to heart and blood vessel health,” said Zhen-Yu Chen, Ph.D., of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and who presented the study. “But we certainly do not recommend that people start consuming chilies to an excess. A good diet is a matter of balance. And remember, chilies are no substitute for the prescription medications proven to be beneficial.”
Therefore, while it may be helpful to ask the waiter to add some extra jalapenos to your guacamole, consider other ways you help your heart in addition to this. An all-natural supplement from Dr. Newton’s Naturals may be what you need.
OmegaKrill provides the body with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to power up the body and fortify the heart. Packed with krill oil, a substance that contains three times more omega-3 than fish oil, it can help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduce risk of coronary heart disease.
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