As its name suggests, a hot pepper diet emphasizes the use of spicy peppers such as cayenne, habanero, serrano and jalapeno peppers. These peppers contain capsaicin, a chemical compounds that lends intense heat. Capsaicin may also offer several health benefits.
Blood Glucose Management
The capsaicin found in hot peppers may help lower glucose levels in your bloodstream, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Glucose is necessary for physical energy and mental focus; however, chronic blood glucose elevations may cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting and insatiable thirst. High blood glucose may also increase your risk of developing diabetes.
Cholesterol Management
A diet that focuses on the consumption of hot peppers may help lower total cholesterol, and may be particularly effective for reducing levels of low-density lipoproteins and triglycerides in your bloodstream, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins may contribute to arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, as well as lipid deposits along the walls of your arteries. These conditions can restrict blood flow and increase your risk of developing heart disease.
Weight Loss
The capsaicin in hot peppers may reduce your appetite, which may prevent you from overeating, and may facilitate weight loss, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Capsaicin may also improve your body's ability to burn saturated fats, preventing your body from storing these fats as excess weight.
Uses
Use diced hot peppers in Asian stir fry dishes, casseroles and curries -- vegetables, lentils and pasta pair well with the heat of jalapenos, serranos and habaneros. Also, flavor soups and stews, such as chili, beef stew and lentil soup, with hot peppers. Sprinkle ground cayenne pepper on eggs, omelettes and fritattas.
Considerations
Avoid touching your eyes or nose when handling hot peppers -- capsaicin may irritate your mucous membranes. Touching hot peppers may also skin rashes. In some cases, consuming hot peppers may cause diarrhea and nausea.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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