Effects of Chilli In Reducing Cholesterol
Doctors are recommending statins as a miracle cure for high levels of cholesterol, and indeed while they do often work, many are concerned about their side effects and would rather seek an natural alternative.
Thankfully chilli is proving itself to be a natural alternative to statins, one which is highly effective in reducing weight and lowering levels of cholesterol in the blood stream.
Chillies have been shown to be effective in assisting people to lose weight, as a diet containing chillies increases the metabolic rate, causing an increase in body heat and which is therefore burning more calories. This is due the active ingredient in chilli peppers, a substance called capsaicin, which gives peppers their characteristic flavor, producing moderate to intense heat when eaten.
It has been noticed that the consumption of capsaicin in the form of chillies can reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides levels, which are often regarded as being a causal factor in major heart diseases such as atherosclerosis.
We often eat more than is required by the body, and if we don't burn off the excess calories these are converted to triglycerides and transported to fat cells to be stored. Capsaicin inhibits the amount of fat that gets stored in this matter, by increasing the metabolic rate, which in turn means that more calories are burned. The higher your metabolic rate, the more fat you will lose.
Chilli consumption is also known to reduce or curb the appetite, because the hot chillies causes the brain to release endorphins which makes the body feel satisfied and less hungry.
Chillies can be taken and enjoyed in food, but in order to achieve significant results in lowering cholesterol and weight loss you'd have to have a regular diet of chillies.
There are many other benefits to Chilli and it's active ingredients, apart from helping to lose weight and fight bad cholesterol. Chiils are something of a super food and are an excellent source of Vitamin, A, B, C and E and many minerals essential for health and well-being.
Researchers have also discovered that the capsaicinoids in chilli can improve poor blood circulation, lower blood pressure, reduce the chances of respiratory problems and kill certain types of bacteria. And the most exciting research shows that chilli has had some positive results in combating some cancer cells, such as prostate and bowl cancers.
All in all the health benefits of Chilli and it's active ingredients it one worth considering adding to your diet as a nutritious and tasty accompaniment, or simply as a way to help reduce cholesterol and lose weight.