Foodie Issue 66: January 2015

Page 29

is spice naughty or nice?

Is Spice

Naughty or Nice? Dietician Wendy Wu debates the health benefits of spicy foods

Well, it depends on who you ask. Traditional Chinese parents would have you believe that spicy foods may be the root of all your problems. But how much truth is there really in that? You may be surprised. A Western doctor or dietitian may encourage you to explore the wonderful world of spices. Capsaicin, the chemical compound found mainly in the seeds

Years ago, many believed that ulcers are caused by stress, smoking, alcohol and eating spicy foods. We now know that most ulcers are caused by a bacteria called H. Pylori or by taking medications like aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen (NSAIDS) on a regular basis. Having said that, those already

facebook.com/foodiehk // january 2015

Various spicy sauces

and ridges of chilli peppers relieves pain, lowers blood pressure, protects the stomach lining, improves circulation and fights inflammation. Chilli peppers are also high in Vitamin A and C, which are powerful antioxidants. On top of all of those benefits, spicy foods may also help with weight loss by suppressing the appetite and increasing satiety. The spices slow down your eating and make you chug down water in between bites. Keep in mind that you might want to drink water instead of dairy to fully reap the weight loss benefits. Tumeric, the yellow spice in curry powder is another spice that’s great for you. Curcumin, a substance in tumeric, fights inflammation, acts as an antioxidant and may help kill cancer cells.

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