For to do lower cholesterol we avoid cold cuts and other fatty foods. We say yes to foods known to be “cholesterol-lowering” such as artichokes, sardines, avocados… and chili peppers! As surprising as it may seem, this spice would be effective in reducing cholesterol levels, according to a Chinese study published in the European Journal of Nutrition. Too high cholesterol, especially from bad LDL cholesterol, is dangerous for health because it increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases linked to blocked arteries.
How is chilli one of the cholesterol-lowering miracle foods? Its secret comes from the capsaicin it contains. This active ingredient that gives chili pepper its flavor is believed to lower cholesterol levels and boost heart health. Chinese researchers discovered this little-known property of chili peppers by forcing mice to eat a diet high in cholesterol to which capsaicins were added. Thanks to the action of the latter, the overall cholesterol level of the mice was reduced compared to a control group which had not undergone the same diet.
The component also helped reduce inflammation, a trigger for heart problems.
This study extolling the merits of chili against cholesterol shows its limits since no experiment has yet been conducted on humans.
Assuming that the chili has real virtues, gorging on chili will not be enough to drive out bad cholesterol for good if you do not adapt your diet and do not practice sport regularly.
This new chilli find adds the cholesterol-lowering effect to the list of supposed properties of chili. If the chili has built a solid reputation as an aphrodisiac, several studies have detected in chilli an anti-inflammatory action and a effect beneficial against prostate cancer.
>> To read also: Eat better to lower your cholesterol
>> To read also: 5 anti-cholesterol recipes
