Capsaicin is a powerful compound that has been linked to many health benefits. Phyllis A. Balch reports in her book, "Prescription for Dietary Wellness," that capsaicin has been shown to lower cholesterol, reduce risk of blood clots, promote a healthy digestive system, protect against free radicals and speed up your metabolism. Knowing what foods contain capsaicin can help you take advantage of these benefits by adding them to your diet.
Spicy Peppers
Spicy peppers -- such as jalapenos, serranos or habaneras -- are among the best sources of capsaicin. The capsaicin in spicy peppers is located between the seeds and the rib of the pepper. Spicy peppers retain their capsaicin no matter how they are prepared or stored. Add diced jalapeno to homemade salsa or chop one or two habaneras to add heat to a pot of chili or bean soup. Spicy peppers can also be dried and ground to use as potent seasonings for Mexican recipes.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers also contain capsaicin in their ribs as well, but in far less quantities than spicy peppers. Adding bell peppers to recipes will result in a sweeter taste. Steven Foster and Rebecca Johnson report in their book, "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," that the spice in peppers is measured in Scoville units. Habanera peppers contain 350,000 Scoville units, while most bell peppers have less than 100. Bell peppers may not have as much capsaicin as spicy peppers, but you will still benefit by adding them to your diet.
Cumin
Cumin is a common spice added to Mexican food and Indian dishes. Although cumin contains less Scoville units than spicy peppers, it still offers many capsaicin benefits. Cumin is a strong spice, so a little bit goes a long way in your recipes. Sprinkle some cumin into beans, soup or chili to add a flavor kick and also take advantage of what capsaicin has to offer.
Turmeric
Turmeric is another spice that contains capsaicin and is often included in curry dishes, Indian food and some Middle Eastern dishes. Turmeric contains less capsaicin than spicy peppers do, but a beneficial amount may exist in just a small sprinkle. Include turmeric in your next Indian dish, sprinkle it on potatoes for an enhanced taste or include it in a favorite soup recipe for a new flavor.
References
- "Prescription for Dietary Wellness"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2003
- "Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill Cookbook"; Bobby Flay; 2007
- "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine"; Steven Foster, Rebecca Johnson; 2008
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