J is for Jalapenos
Jalapenos are jot, jot, HOT!!!!! But they are also full of flavor and full of zest, and add the best flavor to salsas.
And jalapenos and their hotness are also good for your health! That fire and heat is caused by capsaicin, a natural antioxidant that is being studied by scientists for its ability to slow the growth of cancer cells. In South and Central America, where lots and lots of jalapeno peppers are consumed, the rates of colon cancer are much lower than elsewhere. Peppers containing capsaicin are being studied for their natural health ability to reduce the spread of prostate cancer in men.
The heat of the jalapeno produced thermogenic energy, or fat-burning energy and jalapenos are one of the central ingredients of many new weight loss drugs, because it is said to increase metabolism and helps the body to “burn” up calories.
Capsaicin is being used in topical pain relieving patches because, when applied to the skin, it can help to reduce pain. Capsaicin can also help to relieve sinus congestion and respiratory distress.
Some like it hot – and there’s good reason!
