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From fiery curries to peppery salsas, hot and spicy foods have captivated taste buds across cultures for thousands of years. Aside from enhancing the flavor of food, there are numerous health benefits to eating spicy dishes. Sprinkle some hot spices on the next meal for a health and mood boost, plus a pleasant kick!
Unlike bitter, sweet, sour, salty, and umami, spicy is not a taste, according to Live Science. Rather, it is a burning response caused by a compound called capsaicin. Found in hot chili peppers, this healthy ingredient actually evolved as a defense mechanism against being ingested by predators. Humans did not seem to be detracted by this, with many actually enjoying the burning sensation!
Why people love spicy
Science has studied fiery foods and offers theories as to why people love spicy dishes. A study in the journal Appetite found that those who prefer spicy foods are risk takers. So people scarfing down a three-alarm curry without breaking into a sweat tend to be the thrill and sensation seekers of the world.
Live Science points out that there are also genetic factors involved. Some people are born with capsaicin receptors that are either less functional or different, giving them a higher tolerance to hot spices.
There are also cultural and environmental influences that determine one’s heat scale. Those who are exposed to spicy cuisine at an early age actually build a tolerance over time, resulting in a preference to fiery food. This can be seen in places like Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, where spicy cuisine is traditional.
Another reason why people love eating spicy food is that it makes them feel good. The capsaicin triggers a release of endorphins that creates a pleasurable sensation, notes TODAY. When eating spicy foods, this rush of feel-good chemicals may bring on a mood of euphoria.
Nutritional and health benefits
As many spicy dishes incorporate healthy vegetables with the beneficial hot spices, the dishes turn out to be nutritionally dense. In fact, chili peppers abound in vitamin C, according to Health. One raw chili pepper offers 72 percent of the daily value of vitamin C, important for building the immune system. Chili peppers also have high levels of the antioxidant beta-carotene.
Eating spicy foods on a regular basis has been shown to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol as well as improve gut and heart health. Capsaicin may help to fight against inflammation, and protect against ulcers according to Healthline. It could also help prevent serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes and some cancers due to its antioxidant properties and may act as a natural pain reliever.
There are other beneficial compounds found in many spicy dishes. The curcumin in turmeric helps to reduce inflammation, while garlic and ginger are used for nausea, arthritis, and a host of other ailments. Cumin is both antimicrobial and an antioxidant, while many of the hot spices, including cinnamon, may raise metabolic resting rates and contain other health benefits.
Start slowly
For those new to hot spices, it is all about moderation. Health recommends starting out slow by adding a pinch of pepper flakes to a meal, then increasing the fire over time. Your palate will eventually get used to the added heat and new taste sensations. If you overdo it, do not drink water. Instead, reach for protein like a glass of milk.
Whether you are a spice enthusiast or are just starting to explore this zesty world of heat, the compelling evidence shows many health benefits. Besides, it is exciting to enjoy unknown foods, especially if they are foreign and exotic. Be part of the “sensation seeking” crowd and set out on a culinary adventure that uplifts mood while repairing the body.
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