While you may not be a fan of the spicy life, you should know that jalapeños are not only low in calories, but they are also rich in vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Capsaicin is the compound that not only gives jalapeños their fiery spice but is also the basis of the benefits that the pepper provides, including being an anti-inflammatory food.
Read on to find out why you should add a little spice to your diet.
Benefits of Jalapeños
1. Rich in vitamin C
One jalapeño contains 109 mg of vitamin C- providing more than the recommended daily consumption of the nutrient which is 65 to 90 mg. Vitamin C is not only an antioxidant but also an immune booster. Vitamin C also helps to keep the skin healthy and firm by stimulating and creating collagen. Here’s how you can naturally boost your collagen production.
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2. Weight control
A 2012 study revealed that capsaicin, the compound that jalapeños are rich in, not only boosts your metabolism but also increases fat burn and reduces your appetite. Capsaicin is present in all forms of chili peppers, not just jalapeños so if you’re looking to manage your weight doesn’t be afraid to incorporate different chili peppers into your diet.
3. Anti-carcinogenic
Although there still needs to be more human studies, lab studies have shown the anti-carcinogenic properties of capsaicin. Studies have revealed that capsaicin prevents the growth of new cancer cells and also prevents the cancer from spreading to other areas of the body.
4. Healthy heart
Animal studies have shown capsaicin’s ability to lower cholesterol and lipid levels. Furthermore, other studies revealed that eating a few grams of jalapeños before a meal helps to stabilize your blood sugars. These levels usually spike after meals, especially high-carb ones.
5. Pain relief
The compound capsaicin has been revealed to be a great pain-relief agent. In fact, many pain relief lotions and patches list it as an ingredient. When applied, the capsaicin blocks the pain receptors. This is why you feel a burning sensation that eventually fades along with the pain.
A study revealed that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis noted a 57% reduction in pain after applying a cream containing to their joints. If you’d like to include jalapeños in your diet, try adding them to a smoothie or salad. However, if you have a low tolerance for spicy foods, opt for smoother-looking jalapeño peppers as spice indicates a higher level of spiciness. Also, before cooking- take out the white membranes inside the jalapeño as it contains the highest level of capsaicin- which gives the pepper its hot flavor. Lastly, have a glass of milk close by to help ease the pain in case the burning sensation becomes too hot to handle.
