Whether you’re a spicy food enthusiast or you just can’t stand the heat, consuming spicy food does amazing things to your body. A recent study shows that capsaicin, found in chili peppers, can kill lung and pancreatic cancer cells without harming the surrounding cells. Researchers say that countries who eat a spicy diet tend to have lower rates of some cancers.
Although it can be a pain when you take your first bite of chili peppers, capsaicin can alleviate inflammation caused by arthritis and psoriasis. In addition, spicy food can also relieve chronic pain that can be the result of either osteoporosis or headaches. Perhaps next time you have a midterm or a paper that is giving you a headache, maybe a quick spicy meal can just do the trick.
Lastly, February is Heart Health Month, and what better way to take care of your heart than by eating spicy food, which is known to reduce cholesterol? So while you celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special someone or for some, Single Awareness Day, make sure to wear clothes that are easy to take off as the spice consumes your mouth and sweat starts to drip off of your face because you took a big bite of that chili pepper.
The ASUCD Student Health and Wellness Committee (SHAWC) aims to promote and address important health-related issues on campus. We serve as the liaison between ASUCD and campus health organizations, clubs and resources. If you have SHAWCing suggestions, questions or tips, please e-mail us at shawcucd@gmail.com and/or “Like” our Facebook page.
