Great in dips, salsas, and homemade breads, jalapenos are certainly known for their versatility. They’re relatively small but pack a lot of heat, and are a favorite among many in the hot-pepper eating world. What’s more, these spicy, dark green peppers contain nutrients that can help improve your health. For example, jalapenos health benefits include fighting cancer as well as preventing growth of bacteria. You can learn more about jalapenos benefits by reading below.

Here are 5 jalapenos health benefits:
1. May Help Fight Cancer
Jalapenos benefits start with the ability to fight cancer. This is due to the capsaicin present in jalapenos, which may help treat cancer. According to Luohe Medical College in China, capsaicin can stop the growth of tumors. It does this by turning off the protein that promotes their growth. In particular, capsaicin inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells. (1) Other research supports jalapenos benefits regarding cancer treatment, as well. Capsaicin has been shown to change the expression of several genes involved in the growth and spreading of cancer cells. (2)2. Aids Weight Loss
Another way jalapenos benefits come into play is through the ability to boost metabolism. This is helpful if you’re trying to lose weight. And, once again, this health benefit is due to the capsaicin found in jalapenos. Capsaicin raises your core body temperature, which boosts your ability to burn calories. And the spicy quality of jalapenos benefits appetite control, as well. They may suppress your appetite somewhat, making you eat less. As jalapenos health benefits include the ability to boost your metabolism, consider adding them to your weight loss diet plan.3. Prevents Bacteria Growth
Capsaicin is in the spotlight again, as jalapenos benefits continue with the ability to fight bacteria growth. Researchers evaluated capsaicin’s effect on Bacillus subtilis. They found that the growth of this bacteria was significantly inhibited due to capsaicin. Furthermore, the same study showed that capsaicin slowed the growth of E. coli. (3) Jalapenos benefits concerning bacterial growth were evaluated in other studies, as well. One study looked at capsaicin’s effect on streptococcus pyogenes, or GAS. The study found that capsaicin can prevent the formation and spread of infection to deep tissues. (4) Jalapenos health benefits include fighting bacteria. As such, consider consuming them on a regular basis to help keep your body free from bacterial infections.