How Chili Powder Fast Tracks Weight Loss
Speeds metabolism: Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili powder its powerful kick, prods the body to start burning calories for body heat. And University of Maryland scientists say that raises metabolism by 25 percent for three hours — the calorie burn equivalent of going for a 40-minute walk.
Erases headaches: Enjoying a chili powder–spiked drink at the first sign of a headache can reduce pain by 50 percent within 10 minutes, according to investigators at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. That’s because capsaicin has been shown to block the pain receptors in the brain that are thought to trigger head pain.
Improves mood: A drink with a spicy kick can soothe rattled nerves and usher in happiness in as little as two minutes, say researchers at the University of Texas at Austin. The reason? Capsaicin kick-starts the production of endorphins, sending a rush of feel-good hormones to the brain.
Chili Mango Slush
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup mango chunks
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Tajin seasoning
- 1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder
Directions:
In blender, puree all ingredients and 1 cup ice until smooth; divide among 2 glasses. If desired, top with additional Tajin seasoning. Makes 2 servings.
Spiced Virgin Mary Sip
Ingredients:
- 2 cups tomato juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder
- Pinch of celery salt
Directions:
In ice-filled cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients; shake. Strain into 2 glasses. Makes 2 servings.
Grapefruit Lime Spritzer
Ingredients:
- 1⁄2 cup grapefruit juice
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1⁄4 teaspoon chili powder
- Lime seltzer water
Directions:
In shaker, combine first 3 ingredients; strain into glasses. Top with seltzer. Makes 2 servings.
