Agiolado is Chili Pepper-infused Olive Oil.
Introduction:
Olive oil is well-known for its beneficial properties in nutrition and health. However, when combined with chili pepper, the benefits of olive oil are further enhanced. Chili peppers contain an active compound called capsaicin, which possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In combination with olive oil, which is rich in fatty acids and antioxidant compounds, this flavorful combination can contribute to the protection of health and prevention of various diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Capsaicin found in chili peppers has potent anti-inflammatory effects. Research has shown that capsaicin can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory substances and mediators in the body. This can have beneficial effects on inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. A report from an Italian population-based study indicates that intake of hot chili pepper was associated with a significant reduction of all-cause cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality
Antioxidant Properties:
Both chili peppers and olive oil contain antioxidant compounds that help protect cells from oxidative damage. The antioxidant compounds work by preventing the actions of free radicals, which can contribute to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and premature aging.
Anticancer Properties:
Studies have indicated that capsaicin may have anticancer properties against various types of cancer. It has been reported that capsaicin can inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, and it can enhance the effectiveness of anticancer drugs.
In addition to the mentioned benefits, there are further advantages associated with the use of chili pepper-infused olive oil. One study demonstrated that it can decrease lipoprotein oxidation in both men and women, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Lipoprotein oxidation is a process linked to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Moreover, research has indicated that chili pepper-infused olive oil can increase insulin sensitivity, which is a significant factor in preventing and managing heart disease.
Furthermore, chili peppers has been found to modulate inflammation and reduce both chronic and acute pain. Its spicy nature helps to warm up the body and enhance circulation. Therefore, chili pepper is particularly beneficial during colder months when individuals may experience cold sensations or have cold hands and feet. Incorporating cayenne into the diet can help improve circulation and provide a comforting sensation of warmth.
A regular consumption (>4 times/week) of chili pepper was associated with 23% risk of all-cause mortality,
Conclusions:
The combination of chili pepper-infused olive oil offers multiple health benefits. The anti-inflammatory properties of capsaicin, in conjunction with olive oil, can help alleviate inflammatory conditions and good blood circulation, while their antioxidant properties protect cells from oxidative stress. Additionally, capsaicin exhibits anticancer properties that can contribute to cancer prevention.
References:
Surh, Y. J. (2002). Anti-tumor promoting potential of selected spice ingredients with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities: a short review. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 40(8), 1091-1097.
Ahuja, K. D., & Robertson, I. K. (2017). Food fortification and supplementation: technological, safety and regulatory aspects. CRC Press.
Wang, J., Wang, C., & Liang, Q. (2017). The Antioxidant and Anticancer Effects of Capsaicin on Colorectal Cancer Cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2017.
Parkinson, L., & Keast, R. (2014). Oleocanthal, a phenolic derived from virgin olive oil: a review of the beneficial effects on inflammatory disease. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 15(7), 12323-12334.
Spencer David (2019), Chili Pepper Consumption and Mortality,Journal of Americal Cardiology 74 (25) 3150–3152