published on 20/04/2024Levo Ascorbic Acid, commonly known as Vitamin C, is a potent antioxidant abundant in nature, particularly in various plant foods and notably in hot peppers, boasting concentrations ranging from 100 to 300 mg per 100g, depending on the variety.
From the 18th century to the 19th century, the term "antiscorbutic" was coined to describe foods capable of staving off scurvy, a disease caused by Vitamin C deficiency. This discovery not only revolutionized the treatment and prevention of scurvy but also shed light on the broader health benefits associated with this essential nutrient.
In 1921, the "anti-scurvy" principle was formally designated as Vitamin C, and in 1933, it was successfully isolated and crystallized by Joseph Svirbely and Hungarian scientist Albert Szent-Gyorgvi Von Nagyrapolt, who later became a naturalized American citizen. Szent-Gyorgvi was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology in 1937, partly due to his groundbreaking studies on the beneficial effects of Vitamin C.
Today, incorporating Vitamin C-rich foods into our diets is a widely recognized practice. Utilizing chili peppers in cooking not only adds flavor but also contributes to our overall health in a fun and stimulating manner.
Furthermore, it's well-documented that using chili peppers in our culinary endeavors can help reduce our intake of salt, fat, and sugar while enhancing the sensory experience of our meals, if not elevating it altogether.
Moreover, a study published in late 2019 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, led by epidemiologists from the IRCCS Neuromed of Pozzilli in collaboration with the Istituto Superiore di Sanità, the University of Insubria in Varese, and the Mediterranean Cardiocenter of Naples, revealed a remarkable finding: incorporating chili into our diets at least four times a week slashes the risk of heart attack by half.
In light of these findings, it's clear that chili peppers not only tantalize our taste buds but also serve as a potent ally in promoting heart health and overall well-being.
