Why is chili a great dish and why Capsaicin is a good ingredient
Healthy chili recipes are ideal for those times when you need to feed a lot of people. A pot of chili goes a long way and is nutritious and filling. Chili is also excellent when frozen and reheated, making it a good choice for those who don’t want to cook every day of the week.
Make a large pot of it and freeze it in smaller batches for an easy meal during the week, or a healthy lunch to take to work.
Chili nutrient value
Chili is high in nutrients, especially protein, vitamin C and iron. You also get a good amount of fiber from a bowl of chili, which is great for your digestive system and reduces your risk of cancer.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical compound found in chili peppers, which is responsible for their spiciness or taste of hotness.
Capsaicin is used in a variety of applications, including as a food additive to add spiciness to dishes, as a topical analgesic in creams and patches to provide pain relief, and as a repellent to deter animals from eating plants. It has also been studied for its potential health benefits, such as its ability to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of certain types of cancer.
It is important to note that capsaicin can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals, and it should be used in your recipe with caution. Additionally, excessive consumption of capsaicin can lead to gastrointestinal issues and other health problems, resulting in not so pleasant food experience.
Capsaicin, the phytochemical found in chile peppers (and what makes them hot) has a number of healthful properties:
- Boosts the immune system with vitamin A
- Regulates blood sugar
- Curbs your craving for fats and sweets
- Increases your metabolic rate
- Fights inflammation
- Relieves congestion and prevents sinusitis
- Releases endorphins and serotonin which make you feel happy
So make a big pot of chili to enjoy with friends and family, and see your health improve at the same time!