Pepper is known as “the queen of spices” and is one of the most widely used condiments in the world. This spice has a spicy and aromatic touch that is used to enhance the flavour of countless dishes. But its use is not only limited to culinary purposes; numerous studies have shown that it helps to strengthen our health. That is why today we are going to talk about the benefits and contraindications of black pepper.
After reading this post and discovering all its benefits, you will only want to incorporate more black pepper into your diet. Shall we check it out?
What are the benefits of black pepper?
There are many benefits to eating black pepper. Firstly, it is worth noting that it contains various vitamins, minerals and alkaloids that are very beneficial to our health. Such is the case of piperine, vitamin A, C and K or potassium and calcium.
Black pepper helps reduce cholesterol
Several studies have concluded that a compound found in this spice, piperine, helps to reduce cholesterol absorption. In addition, another advantage of seasoning your dishes with black pepper is that it allows you to reduce salt. And it doesn’t get any better than this to help you lower your cholesterol.
Properties of black pepper for weight loss
Black pepper is digestive and this is due to piperine, which helps nutrients to digest better. It stimulates the digestive enzymes in the pancreas and intestines, so you will notice that your digestion is better.
In addition, piperine causes thermogenesis, i.e. our body temperature rises. This causes our metabolism to speed up, helping us to burn calories faster. So we can say that, yes, black pepper is slimming. Furthermore, research has shown that the accelerating power of piperine is equivalent to walking for 20 minutes at a moderate pace.
It is precisely for this reason that black pepper is one of the ingredients in our success formula. CCHealth High Impact Fat Burner contains 10mg of black pepper to help you lose weight and gain strength in a 100% safe and natural way. What more could you ask for?
Antioxidant capacity of black pepper
Pepper contains vitamin C and beta-carotene, so it has strong antioxidant properties. This helps to reduce the ageing of cells caused by free radicals. It should also be remembered that vitamin C strengthens all the body’s tissues and boosts our immune system. If you want to know more about the importance of vitamin C for athletes, take a look at this post.
And precisely because of its antioxidant properties, we can also talk about the benefits of black pepper for hair. Vitamin C, together with beta-carotene and vegetable flavourings, contribute to hair health, making our hair shiny. They strengthen the cells of the scalp and promote hair growth, protecting it from free radicals that accelerate hair loss and weaken it.
Strengthens our immune system
Pepper is one of the oldest home remedies for soothing illnesses such as flu. But this is not just a home remedy with no scientific basis. It has been proven that capsaicin, one of its components, helps to alleviate symptoms and promotes the release of substances that activate the immune response.
Black pepper is analgesic
In addition to the properties already mentioned, piperine also works as an analgesic. Black pepper also contains an essential oil that can be used externally to relieve muscle and bone pain. It produces a warming effect and analgesic action that helps to reduce pain, which is why it is often used as a component of anti-inflammatory creams.
Benefits of black pepper on the skin
Piperine stimulates skin pigmentation, so black pepper has been shown to help cure vitiligo. This is a skin disease that causes a lack of pigmentation in certain areas of the body.
Contraindications of black pepper
Black pepper has benefits but also contraindications. For this reason, it is best consumed in moderation, as excessive use can cause unwanted reactions and irritation.
Here are some recommendations on how to benefit from black pepper without over-consuming it:
- In excess, it can cause damage to the gastric mucosa.
- Certain medicines can react with pepper, so you should be aware of this before consuming it.
- If it is applied directly to the skin, as is the case with pepper essential oil, it should be tested on a small area first, as it can cause sensitivity.
- It is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.