If you are one of those people who enjoy spicy foods, then you may be in luck!

Capsaicin is the ingredient in chili pepper that makes them spicy. Chinese scientists realized that when genetically hypertensive rats were fed capsaicin, their constricted arteries became more and more relaxed and their blood pressure was lowered. It has also been observed that populations whose diet contains large amounts of capsaicin saw 25-50% fewer cases of high blood pressure.

Scientist have yet to determine if capsaicin works for blood pressure in humans and much more research is needed.

For more information visit http://www.aolhealth.com/2010/08/04/hot-tamale-chili-peppers-may-lower-blood-pressure/.