Why sriracha is good for you

Boosts Your Metabolism The red chili pepper is the main ingredient of sriracha sauce. Capsaicin inhibits fat accumulation Capsaicin also reduces hunger 3. Makes You Happier Capsaicin also aids the increase of endorphins in the body.

Capsaicin releases serotonin It enhances mood and memory It produces dopamine It also gives a sense of pleasure and reward 4. Peppers are rich in Vitamins A and C These help create white blood cells that fight germs Peppers also have strong anti-inflammatory effects 5. Lowers Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels Garlic contains amino acids, a sulfur compound, antioxidants, and multiple minerals and vitamins. Garlic is another key ingredient of Sriracha It lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure 6.

Fights Colds Spicy foods help relieve congested nasal passages, aid with breathing when suffering from bronchitis, and alleviate flu symptoms. The spiciness of Sriracha acts as an expectorant It helps clear mucus from the nose 7. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels Research shows chili peppers can also help in managing blood sugar levels and even reduce the risk of high insulin levels in the blood.

Spices stimulate glucose absorption from the small intestine Spices help regulate insulin levels 8. The combo of garlic and capsaicin is powerful They clear away artery-narrowing lipid deposits Both are attributed to help dissolve blood clots Now, these are all good reasons to get behind the sriracha craze! Sunset Ave. City Of Industry, CA If you flip that red bottle over and take a look at the nutrition label on the back, you'll find a list of ingredients that include chili, sugar, salt, garlic, distilled vinegar, potassium sorbate, sodium bisulfite and xantham gum.

To put that into perspective for you, ketchup contains about the same amount of sugar 1. So yeah, I hate to break it to you, but you haven't been doing yourself a favor by swapping out the ketchup for this spicy sauce. Sriracha also contains more sugar per teaspoon than marinara sauce, which typically gets a pretty bad rap for being notoriously high in sugar. Even honey mustard — yes, something with the word honey in its damn name!

Flavorful spices like cumin and turmeric are great too. Clinging to your bottle of Sriracha in defense? Don't worry, you can loosen your grip: You don't have to toss the bottle entirely. Just be aware of how much you're using, and look for versions with a more natural ingredient list when you can.

Or, even better, make it yourself. Photo: Bourbon and Honey. In a medium skillet, heat the dried chilies over medium heat, turning frequently until lightly toasted. Cut into half-inch pieces. Pour the mixture into sterile canning jars, cover with a coffee filter or cheese cloth and secure with a rubber band or some twine. Let the mixture stand at room temperature for five to seven days.

Looking for more ways to satisfy cravings, without the extra sugar? These healthy desserts are high in good fats and low in sugar.