Here are 6 science-backed health benefits of black pepper.
1. High in antioxidants
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells. Some free radicals are created naturally — such as when you exercise and digest food.
However, excessive free radicals can be formed with exposure to things like pollution, cigarette smoke, and sunrays.
Black pepper is rich in a plant compound called piperine, which test-tube studies have found to have potent antioxidant properties.
Studies suggest that a diet high in antioxidants may help prevent or delay the damaging effects of free radicals
2. Has anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation may be an underlying factor in many conditions, such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
3. May benefit your brain
Piperine has been shown to improve brain function in animal studies.
In particular, it has demonstrated potential benefits for symptoms related to degenerative brain conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
4. May improve blood sugar control
Studies suggest that piperine may help improve blood sugar metabolism
5. May lower cholesterol levels
High blood cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide
Black pepper extract has been studied in animals for its potential to reduce cholesterol levels.
6. May have cancer-fighting properties
Researchers hypothesize that the active compound in black pepper, piperine, may have cancer-fighting properties