Did You Know???

Peppers contain a chemical called “Capsaicin” that is responsible for the sensation of heat. The chemical is also responsible for the many health benefits attributed to all varieties of hot peppers. Some of these benefits are:

• Increases metabolism and fat burning by up to 25%.
• Aids in digestion.
• Helps improve circulation and decreases blood pressure.
• Helps lungs function more efficiently, has a healing effect on pulmonary and respiratory problems and reduces the occurrence of respiratory illnesses.
• Helps asthmatics breathe more easily.
• Clears sinus and nasal congestion.
• Reduces the occurrence and intensity of headaches, including migraine and cluster headaches.
• Inhibits the growth of H. Pylori, which is a bacteria responsible for certain types of ulcers.
• Provides a major source of vitamins A and C and bioflavonoids which help promote healthy cell growth.

Capsaicin also has been used to help treat colds and fevers, and is being investigated for its uses in pain control and in the prevention of cancer.

Have you ever felt pleasantly light-headed after a really spicy meal?

(It may not be the wine!!!) Capsaicin also increases the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural opiates, creating a ‘natural high’ similar to the sensation that you would get from prolonged, intense exercise.

Garlic

Garlic is proven to decrease total cholesterol while raising the body’s ‘good’ cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, decrease the risk of stroke, heart attack and certain cancers of the stomach and can destroy infection causing bacteria and viruses.

Ginger

Ginger speeds up your rate of metabolism, causing you to burn more calories. It also soothes an upset stomach by inhibiting nausea and vomiting.