Unlocking the Health Benefits of Sriracha: Nutritional Information Revealed
Sriracha has become a staple in many households around the world. This hot sauce, made from sun-ripened chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt, adds a spicy kick to your favourite dishes. However, did you know that sriracha also has some surprising health benefits? In this article, we will reveal the nutritional information of sriracha and explore its potential health benefits.
The Nutritional Profile of Sriracha
Before we dive into the benefits of sriracha, let’s take a closer look at its nutritional profile. One tablespoon (15ml) of sriracha contains:
- 5 calories
- 1g of carbohydrates
- 0.5g of sugar
- 1mg of sodium
- 0.5g of fiber
- 10% of your daily vitamin C
- 5% of your daily vitamin A
As you can see, sriracha is low in calories and sugar, making it a great option for those watching their weight or sugar intake. Additionally, it contains both vitamin C and A, which play important roles in maintaining a healthy immune system and vision.
The Health Benefits of Sriracha
1. May Boost Metabolism
Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, has been found to increase metabolism. This means that consuming foods containing capsaicin, such as sriracha, may help you burn more calories and fat. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that capsaicin consumption increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans.
2. May Help Fight Inflammation
Sriracha contains garlic, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is linked to various chronic diseases, such as arthritis and heart disease. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming garlic reduced markers of inflammation in overweight or obese adults.
3. May Boost Heart Health
The capsaicin in sriracha may also have benefits for heart health. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that capsaicin consumption improved cholesterol levels in people with high blood cholesterol levels.
4. May Improve Digestion
Sriracha contains vinegar, which has been shown to improve digestion. Vinegar can help increase the production of stomach acid, which can aid in the digestion of food. Additionally, vinegar has been found to slow down the emptying of the stomach, which can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce overeating.
Conclusion
Sriracha is more than just a tasty condiment – it may also have some surprising health benefits. From boosting metabolism to fighting inflammation and improving heart health, sriracha is a condiment worth adding to your diet. While it’s important to consume it in moderation, incorporating sriracha into your meals can spice up your health and taste buds at the same time!
