Raw, fried, roasted in your tadkas or added to curries, this little spice is not only delicious but also rich in so many vitamins. It comes with a pack of health benefits that it almost seems unbelievable. Here are 5 magical health benefits of eating green chilies.
1. Green chillies are loaded with antioxidants, that protect the body against free radicals by acting as natural scavengers. Green chillies can also keep prostate problems at bay.
2. Green chillies come with zero calories. In fact, they speed up one’s metabolism as much as 50% for up to three hours after eating.
3. Green chillies also exert a number of beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Specifically, it reduces the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis by reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels and platelet aggregation, as well as increasing fibrinolytic activity.
4. Interestingly enough capsaicin, found in green chilies although hot to taste, has been shown to lower body temperature by stimulating the cooling center of the hypothalamus in the brain. This explains why, even in very hot places like India, green chilies are consumed.
5. The heat produced by the chilies, act as an effective pain reliever, as a digestive and anti-ulcer aid. Although, people with active peptic ulcer may be bothered by “spicy foods”.