Is Black Pepper Good For Your Health?

Black pepper, also known as piper nigrum, is one of the most commonly used spices at most dinner tables. The use of black pepper goes back thousands of years. Black pepper was used not only as seasoning for food, but also as currency and spiritual offering, according to the "The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods" by Michael Murray. Black pepper is created by grinding up the fruit or peppercorn of a pepper plant. Pepper increases flavor and freshness of food, and has a variety of health benefits.

Digestion

Black pepper aids in the body's digestive process. Pepper appeals to the taste buds and increase saliva and stomach acid, according to Murray. The specific chemical responsible for increasing the body's digestive enzymes is piperine. When there is sufficient or excess stomach acid, known as hydrochloric acid, the body is able to digest proteins and other food ingredients. However, if there is an insufficient amount of stomach acid, you may suffer from heartburn and indigestion.

Decreased Gas

Pepper decreases the amount of gas created in your intestines, especially beneficial if you suffer from frequent flatulence. Though flatulence is the body's natural method of ridding it of excess gas, you may suffer from the socially embarrassing condition of too much flatulence. Increase the use of black pepper to decrease gas. In addition, avoid eating gas-producing foods such as beans, cabbage and broccoli.

Weight Loss

The outer shell of the peppercorn may promote weight reduction, according to DoctorsHealthPress.com. It contains substances that may increase fat cell metabolism. An additional benefit of using pepper in your diet is the low amount of calories the spice contains. A dash of pepper on your food contains nearly zero calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Nutrient Database. Even used in larger amounts, the spice contains relatively low calories. Just 1 tsp. has 7 calories, according to the database. The American Heart Association also suggests improving health and using pepper instead of salt in your diet, to decrease sodium levels.

Cons

Murray states pepper contains high levels of oxelate. If you suffer from calcium oxelate kidney stones you should be aware black pepper contains moderate amounts. According to the Oxalosis and Hyperoxaluria Foundation, patients diagnosed with enteric hyperoxaluria should avoid food containing even moderate amounts of oxelates.

Additional Guidelines

When purchasing pepper, Murray suggests using whole peppercorn kernels and a pepper mill. Besides the bonus of fresh ground pepper having a more intense flavor, you are guaranteed no other spices are added into the mix. Choose organic black peppercorns, as they are most likely to not have experienced irradiation. Store black pepper in a cool, dry place.