Cinco de Mayo Chili Pepper Tribute
Everyone loves to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and enjoy some of our favorite Mexican appetizers, meals, and cocktails. Those zesty Mexican favorites just wouldn’t be the same without the addition of some fiery chili peppers. This Cinco de Mayo Westchase Premier Dental would like to honor these zingy little nuggets of fire. We have found some interesting facts about chili peppers of all varieties and some health benefits worth sharing.
Chili Peppers help boost your immune system. The bright color from chili peppers is derived from their high content of beta-carotene, or vitamin A. Vitamin A is keeps your mucous membranes healthy, which are your body’s first line of defense against pathogens. Chili peppers are also high in calcium, which promotes strong bones and teeth.
Let’s Talk Capsaicin
Chili peppers are high in capsaicin, which is known to fight the inflammatory process. Capsaicin gives chili peppers their pungence ranging from very mild to intensely spicy. The hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin it contains. Capsaicin is also known to be a natural pain reliever. It is now being used as a topical treatment to relieve osteoarthritic pain. Along with reducing pain, capsaicin helps to clear out a stuffy nose and congested lungs. The heat from the peppers stimulates secretions to aid in clearing mucus.Â
There are many other possible health benefits of chili peppers being studied including:
- Preventing Stomach Ulcers
- Lowering Type 2 Diabetes Risks
- Weight Loss
- Cardiovascular Benefits
For further reading on the possible health benefits read whfoods.org
Get out and celebrate this Cinco de Mayo and enjoy your spicy chili pepper infused favorites along with your Margaritas. Don’t forget to contact us for your next dental visit at (813) 475 – 4528. Our friendly staff is always ready to assist you.
