A flavor enhancer around the world and part of the most used and recognized culinary duo, pepper is one of the most used spice in the world, adding layers upon layers of taste and flavor to dishes for hundreds of years. Most known for its flavor enhancing properties, versatility and it's iconic pairing with salt, the king of spices how it is sometimes called, has a lot of health benefits it has to offer also.

When it comes to the health benefits of black pepper this potent little sphere not only provides a wide array of benefits and nutrients by itself alone, but also aid in the absorption of nutrients coming from other foods, thus potentiating nutrition as a whole.

Black pepper health benefits

Like any food or spice on the planet black pepper should be also consumed in moderation and you should consult your doctor or certified nutrition specialist before making changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Here are some of the best 10 health benefits of black pepper you could get by adding them to your diet in moderation:

1. Digestive aid. Yes black pepper may cause stomach problems for some, especially when eaten to much, but when take in moderation it can actually improve digestion for most. This is due because of how black pepper increases the levels of acid in the stomach. An increased acidity helps dissolve the food we eat, negating some effects such as bloating, gas and indigestion, according to WebMD.

2. Full of antioxidants. Piper nigrum as it is also called, in full of healthful antioxidants that can make us fell better and look younger. The primary antioxidant in black peppers is called piperine and like all antioxidants helps fight free radicals and neutralize the oxidative stress these produce in our bodies.

3. It has anti-inflammatory effects. Adding black peppers to your diets can improve conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and heart problems, all of which having the potential same root and that being chronic inflammation.

4. Brain function support. Piperine enhances the production of serotonin and dopamine which make us feel good and more optimistic while improving the overall health and function of the brain.

5. Weight loss. It may come as a surprise that a plant so small can have a big effect on nutrition, diet and weight loss. The usual culprit when it comes to black peppers (piperine) is responsible for hindering the formation of new fat cells, thus reducing our bodies capacity to store fat and gain weight. As an added bonus, eating black peppers also increase metabolism which will help you burn fat and reduce your weight even further.

6. Respiratory health. Black pepper can improve respiratory health because of its expectorant properties. You may already know and already experience that when eating spicy food your nose begins to drip and after a while you breathe more clearly. This is because compounds in black peppers break down mucus and phlegm clearing the air passages.

7. Nutrition. Healthline says on their website that black peppers can improve nutrient absorption, meaning you get more nutrients from the same amount of food you eat. This means more vitamins, more minerals and more health benefits from the same foods.

8. Healthy skin. Pepper increases blood flow and circulation aiding delivery of nutrients and necessary food and oxygen to the skin. Combine this with the antioxidants it also contains and you can see why black pepper is a natural ally for healthy skin and vibrant health.

9. Blood sugar. It can be a beneficial addition to the diet for those who suffer for high blood sugar, because of piperine. Please speak with your certified nutritionist or a doctor before making dietary changes, especially if you suffer from a chronic disease or follow a certain diet or prescription.

10. Fights pain with pain. Eating spicy food can cause a painful burning sensation to our mouth. Black pepper also has the ability to help relieve pain caused by muscle strain, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions by being soothing and analgesic.

Adding pepper to you diet is probably the easiest, being so widely available at almost every restaurant and food parlor in the world. Eating black pepper in moderation can add both flavor to your diet and bring important health benefits in a natural way.

Black pepper pros and cons

Above, we have discussed about the most prevalent health benefits of black pepper. But of course, some people might find out that adding black pepper to their diet, in any amount can cause side effects. Eating to much black pepper can cause gastrointestinal problems such as irritation and heartburn, allergy reaction in some people and some medication interference. This is why you should consult with a specialist when you make a diet addition. Because, while black pepper is considered generally safe to eat for most people, some may develop different reactions to it.

What happens if you eat too much black pepper?

Your should always consult with a health care provider before attempting to make a dietary change, especially if you have existing medical conditions.