Together with salt, black pepper is one of the most commonly used spices in the world and should not be missing in any kitchen cabinet. The aromatic pungent is often referred to as the “king of spices” and adds a flavorful pep to any dish. While we are familiar with the negative effects of too much salt consumption, we do not know much about the benefits of black pepper for our health. Yet the seasoning not only provides a pleasant aroma, but has been used since ancient times to treat a wide variety of ailments and diseases. Okay, is black pepper healthy? What are its health benefits and what is the difference between the various types of pepper? We’ll tell you the answers in a moment in our article!
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What is the difference between the different types of pepper?
Whether white, green, red or black pepper – the popular spice goes well with both savory and sweet dishes and should not be missing in any kitchen. All pepper varieties come from the same plant, the pepper bush (Piper nigrum) and differ not only in appearance, but also in taste and degree of pungency. Depending on further processing and time of harvest, the grains get their specific coloring. In the unripe state, the fruits are green, and in the ripe – red. Green pepper is characterized by a fresh and mild taste. Red and black pepper, on the other hand, are more sweetly spicy, and white pepper is considered the particularly hot spice classic. To benefit from all the health benefits of the seasoning and for the grains to develop their versatile aroma, you should of course choose fresh and natural pepper without additives as much as possible.
Black pepper healthy for digestion
Black pepper is healthy and has been used since ancient times for various ailments. The king of spices contains over 200 different components, the most important of which is piperine. This is an alkaloid that gives black pepper its pungent flavor. The ingredient is also considered a kind of antioxidant and offers many benefits for our health and brain. Piperine also stimulates the release of gastric juices and saliva, thus aiding digestion. In addition, the tannins and phytochemicals contained in pepper ensure that fatty and heavy foods are more digestible and easier to digest. Thus, the seasoning can help with diarrhea and stomach pain and relieve flatulence . However, the pungent substances can irritate the mucous membrane in the stomach and if you have a sensitive stomach lining, you should not overdo it with consumption.
Helps with coughs and colds
Since black pepper is antipyretic and anti-inflammatory, it is one of the most effective home remedies for coughs and colds. In addition, the spice warms from the inside and can relieve sore throats. To kill the bacteria, take three black peppercorns for it and chew them well in your mouth. Depending on how severe the sore throat is, repeat the process several times a day. A tea made of black pepper, honey and some turmeric is one of the most effective home remedies for colds and relieves the symptoms very quickly. Mix some freshly ground pepper with 1 tablespoon of honey and a pinch of turmeric and fill the cup with boiling water. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, strain and drink.
Piperine for better bioavailability
As early as 1979, piperine was described as the first bioenhancer and is considered the most effective substance of its kind. These are certain active ingredients that ensure that vitamins, trace elements and minerals are better absorbed by the intestine. This in turn contributes to a significant improvement in bioavailability and can compensate for nutrient deficiencies. In particular, the bioavailability of curcumin, the most important active ingredient in turmeric, is increased up to 20-fold when combined with piperine. Consumption of black pepper is healthy and can also increase the absorption of other important vital substances such as selenium, vitamins A and C.
Black pepper helps burn fat
Yes, you read it right! Black pepper is healthy and can even help burn fat. According to a scientific study conducted by Sejong University in South Korea, piperine inhibits the formation of fat cells and the spiciness also activates thermogenesis, which produces heat in our body and thus converts fat into energy. The bitter substances contained in black pepper stimulate the metabolism and thus help in fat loss.
