Does chili actually cause stomach ulcers? | The State

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Oiluarb_ai / Pixabay

The belief that chili can cause stomach ulcers or aggravate the intestinal inflammation it is wrong.

According to the Center for Research in Food and Development (CIAD), this bad reputation about the effects of chili on the stomach is preceded by a study conducted in Mexico decades ago. In this study, the consumption of chili in people who already suffered from gastrointestinal conditions, such as ulcers, but the consumption of other foods that do cause these diseases was not evaluated.

Promotes ulcer healing

With time and new research it has been shown that contrary to affecting the stomach, chili increases blood supply in gastric ulcers, favoring the cicatrization.

The CIAD also notes that chili could prevent cancer in the gastrointestinal system, both directly and indirectly, by transforming mutagens to non-mutagenic compounds.

Gastroprotective effects of chili

Chili peppers have a variety of health protective compounds. They contain capsaicionoids (eleven different ones, including the capsaicin), capsinoids and the carotenoids capsanthin. It is also rich in phenolic compounds, vitamin C Y Vitamin E.

Capsaicin may reduce intestinal inflammation according to a review of studies published by the State University of Londrina.

The review notes that the capsaicin reduces damage to the gastric mucosa induced by ethanol and indomethacin in healthy human subjects. It is also explained that the capsaicin present in chili peppers reduces gastric ulcer induced by H. pylor (one of the main causative agents of these sores on the mucosa).

Anti-inflammatory

The chili has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Chili peppers and bell peppers are rich in quercetin, synapic acid, ferulic acid, and other antioxidants with strong anti-inflammatory effects. Studies reveal that capsaicin also has pain-relieving and inflammation-fighting properties.

We must bear in mind that some foods, however healthy they are, in excess can have negative effects on health. Chili peppers and highly processed sauces, with irritant compounds, preservatives, artificial flavors and others additives can affect your gastrointestinal system.

Enjoy raw or cooked chilies. To improve the absorption of the compounds and their protective effects, it is recommended consume them with fatsespecially healthy, like olive oil or avocado.

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