Peppers are one of the most common food types used by many different cultures around the world. From Italian pasta, to Indian curries chili peppers are used throughout the world. Many have speculated that their heavy use in countries such as India has contributed towards the health and long life expectancies of the nation.
The fruit from chilli plants come from the Capsicum family of vegetables which is divided into two categories; sweet bell peppers and spicy chili peppers such as the habanero or scotch bonnet. The difference between bell peppers and chili peppers arises from the presence of the chemical that gives chillies their heat - capsaicin.
Chili peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C. Sweet peppers contain as much as two times of vitamin C as oranges. Though not a much as sweet peppers it is surprising to know that chili peppers also pack a heavy punch when it comes to vitamin c. In addition chillies provide a number f other benefits such as:
1. Effective treatment for inflammation such as arthritis
2. Reduce risk of heart attack by reducing cholesterol, by helping to help keep arteries unblocked
3. Clear blocked noses and sinuses
4. Prevent prostate cancer by inhibiting growth of cancerous cells · Prevent stomach ulcers by killing bacteria in the stomach and stimulate more protective stomach juices.
5. Help to lose weight as it speeds up the body's metabolism rate, suppresses appetite and cravings for sweet foods.
6. Lower risk of Type 2 diabetes by controlling the blood sugar.
Saying that hot peppers are a super food may be a bit of a strong statement. I think it is wrong to call any food a super food. However by incorporating chilli peppers into a healthy diet you may benefit from some of these effects. Just remember that as with all so called super foods the best advice is to eat them along with a healthy low fat varied diet, combined with regular exercise.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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