Incidences of colorectal cancer are on the rise. Researchers have begun to focus on natural ways to help prevent the development of this life threatening health condition. An unlikely remedy has been found in the compounds contained within chili pepper plants. Eating chili peppers can actually reduce your chances of developing colorectal cancer.
What is colorectal cancer?
This type of cancer occurs when a cancerous tumor develops within the colon and may also be found in the rectum. Adenocarcinoma is the name of the most common type of colorectal cancer and it develops in glandular cells and tissues within the network of glands that are located in this area.
Causes of colorectal cancer
Genetic factors that are inherited from close family members can predispose an individual to the development of this disease. Cellular mutations, toxins, pathogens and cellular damage that is caused from other diseases can be the predecessors that initiate the development of abnormal cells which become cancerous and begin to spread.
Risk factors for colorectal cancer
Tumors may start out as benign polyps. These are early warning signs that cancer may develop. Catching this disease before the cells mutate into full blown cancer are vital in increasing the chances of survival. Removal of the polyps can prevent cancer from developing.
How polyps are detected
A rectal exam using the medical provider’s finger alone can detect half of all polyps that develop and the remainder by colonoscopy. This is why it is vital to have regular examinations to avoid the diagnosis of cancer.
How Chili peppers prevent colorectal cancer?
The active compound known as capsaicin, found in chili peppers reduces the risk of developing colorectal cancers by causing a chemical reaction in the body. Capsaicin is a natural tumor suppressant which stimulates a host of chemical exchanges within the gut, causing an inhospitable environment for tumor development.
Studies involving mice with malignant tumors of the intestine showed that those who were given capsaicin lived an average of 30% longer than those who were not given the remedy. Evidence of the compound’s effectiveness in suppressing tumor growth and development has led researchers to make the claim that it is a powerful means of preventing the development of this type of cancer.
How capsaicin is used as a health supplement?
The popularity of capsaicin is already beginning to spread. Its proven ability to inhibit tumor growth has gained the attention of medical professionals, alternative medicine practitioners and the general public. The compound is currently available in topical ointments for analgesic use as a pain reliever. Those who are seeking its cancer prevention benefits most commonly consume chili peppers as an ingredient in prepared meals.
There is also a large variety of natural health supplements on the market like advocare 10 day cleanse, digestive advantage reviews that are most often marketed as cayenne liquid, caplets, pills or the brand name Capzaisin which comes in a fluid for the relief of arthritis pain.
Benefits of taking capsaicin supplements
Regardless of the reason for taking capsaicin supplements, the cancer preventing benefit exists. Those who regularly use this dietary supplement may gain relief from arthritis, digestive issues or chronic pain that is caused by some other condition, receive a double benefit by cutting their chances of getting colorectal cancer.
More research is needed into botanical compounds
Because of the research that has been invested into the healing qualities of the compounds found within certain plants and food sources, science is finding more ways to validate the beliefs of alternative medicine practitioners and validate many of the ancient remedies which have been used for centuries. Chili peppers have been known primarily for their usefulness in relieving certain types of pain and discomfort. The discovery of their tumor inhibiting properties is a bonus that gives more hope for people who seek to improve their health outlooks by consuming foods that provide a preventative solution for many of the leading diseases that lead to sickness and death today.
Conclusion
Many people are looking for natural ways to become proactive in the prevention of illnesses such as colorectal cancers. Foods such as chili peppers that contain helpful compounds that have a profound effect upon the inner workings of the body are an excellent example of how this can be done. But it is only through scientific research that the beliefs associated with the healing properties of botanical remedies can be confirmed.
