If you are one of those people that can enjoy the nose dripping, eye watering, sweat inducing, sensation that comes with a spicy meal,  – Good News!

Those reactions, the result of a chemical called capsaicin found in hot peppers, have several beneficial side effects. The same chemical reaction that makes you gasp in agony also prompts a rush of endorphins, creating a kind of mild euphoria and reducing the perception of pain. Aztec and Mayan civilizations considered it an aphrodisiac. A first rate decongestant, it can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and increase mental acuity. By stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, capsaicin makes nutrient absorption more efficient. If you like it hot, adding spicy peppers to your meal can cut your appetite by half, boost your immunity, and reduce the risk of stomach ulcers.

Whether you want to spice up your life, your meal or your health, peppers are a great choice.

Learn more:

Ten ways hot peppers help you be healthy and lose weight

Healthy benefits of hot peppers

Web MD Peppers and Your Health

The World’s Hottest Pepper: Brings Pleasure and Pain Relief