Pepper not only improves the flavors of food but also provides many health benefits to those who consume it regularly. Here are 3 amazing health benefits you will find in pepper that will turn you into a fan!
The active compounds in pepper, when consumed on a regular basis, can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, improving the digestion of fats and carbohydrates and preventing the formation of gas in the intestine.
It is also anti-inflammatory, great for your liver, stimulates the proper functioning of the immune system and helps prevent oxidative stress.
One of, perhaps little known, benefits of pepper is that it stimulates the central nervous system and has an antidepressant effect.
The explanation for this is that piperine appears to increase serotonin levels. On the other hand, piperine has analgesic and sleep-enhancing effects.
It promotes proper cognitive functioning and is preventive for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease.
Pepper consumption is also beneficial for the skin. According to a study carried out by King's College London, topical treatments with black pepper stimulate melanin production.
It also has antibacterial properties that help to fight infections and insect bites.
However, we must be careful because in high doses it can damage the mucous membrane of the stomach and predispose us to suffer from gastritis or ulcers.
Even so, more studies are needed to demonstrate this harmful effect of pepper, which depends on individual tolerance.