Chilli is welcomed by many women who believe the popular hot pepper can burn calories and speed up weight loss. Actually, the spicy food has various healthful effects and is often recommended by nutritionists.
Full of the antioxidant, carotene, chilli can reduce low-density cholesterol in the blood and prevent cholesterol from turning into harmful elements that block blood vessels. The intake of food rich in chilli can aid in the prevention of cancer, stroke and heart disease.
Also, chilli is rich in vitamin A and C, two necessary nutrients.
Red chilli has been proven to be a curative for cough, cold, rhinitis and bronchitis. Chilli contains a kind of botanic chemical element that has the same effect as medicines but with no side effects.
Excessive intake of chilli may harm the stomach, but medical experts say that a certain amount of chilli can stimulate the secretion of digestive fluid and protect the stomach.
(Shanghai Star November 12, 2001)
