What Makes a Hot Pepper Hot?

Because of one little molecule found in hot peppers called “capsaicin” [pronounced cap-say-i-sin]. It starts with a burning sensation that tricks the pain receptors into reacting. The body reacts to cool itself down through various ways. (tips in this article) The Health Benefits Are Astounding!

• Studies carried out in recent years have proved that hot peppers can actually improve and prevent ulcers. As a benefactor they stimulate particularly gastric mucosal blood flow, which help in prevention and healing of ulcers.
• Excellent source of vitamin C and powerfully rich in anti-oxidants combating heart disease.
• Research shows peppers may actually lower blood sugar level and support diabetics.
• Studies showed people who ate Chile peppers ate less at their next meal. Help control your appetite by adding a little spice.
• Increases enzymes and gastric juices for aid indigestion.

The pungent chemical capsaicin is available in over-the-counter creams to treat muscle ache and other types of pain; also used to reduce itching in psoriasis. It first stimulates and then decreases the intensity of pain signals in the body. Although pain may at first increase, it usually decreases after the first use. There are many other benefits to capsaicin and research continues…from the lungs to the heart and a toothache to a poultice! Resources: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(4):275-328 Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016 Jul 3;56(9):1488-500 American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) Put The Fire Out Ever felt really brave or just happen to bite into a pepper that was a little hotter than you expected? No need to panic as there is more than one way to remedy the fire. Since “capsaicin is fat soluble, Grabbing a water-based liquid will actually spread the oily capsaicin rather than reduce its effect. HERE ARE SIX TIPS TO HELP YOU SUCCEED:

1. To reduce the burning sensation, remove the seeds from the peppers before you eat or cook with them. (May want to use gloves if peppers are extra hot.)
2. Milk contains casein, a fat-loving compound that binds with spicy capsaicin oil and then washes it away.  Other dairy products, such as cheese, sour cream or yogurt can have the same affect.
3. Starch, such as bread, rice, crackers, or chips will also mop up the heat (capsaicin oil). Healthy chips and salsa….YUM!
4. Bananas along with the peppers, have been said to help reduce the burning sensation.
5. Works great to swish a little oil in your mouth and spit it out; will bind to the capsaicin oil.
6. A small amount of sugar, depending on the heat of the pepper is used often in other countries.

Word of Caution If you are just beginning to use capsaicin in any form…fresh, prepared food, or powder form, start with small amounts. Too much can be like an overdose of medicine and cause a sense of heartburn and possible uncomfortable bowel movements. Compiled by Advanced Nutrition Center, Inc.; Sherrlyn Christmas-John, C.N.C. For more Info visit www.Sherrlynchristmas.com 916-487-WELL