Technically speaking, capers are neither fruit nor vegetable. These little bean-like foods are actually the immature flower buds of the Capparis spinosa bush native to the Mediterranean region. The buds are typically harvested and pickled in brine to reduce some of its natural bitterness.

Although an acquired taste, capers provide several health benefits linked to heart health and overall development, among other things. Capers also have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that reinforce its status as a superfood.

Here are 12 reasons why you should add capers to your diet.

Fortify the immune system

Capers are rich in antioxidants, such as rutin and quercetin, that help the immune system ward off disease-causing pathogens and free radicals. Quercetin also doubles as a natural analgesic to relieve pain and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Promote growth and development

Capers are also a gold mine for essential minerals like iron and calcium that contribute to overall growth and development. Iron, for instance, plays an important role in the cognitive and physical growth of children. Meanwhile, calcium strengthens teeth and supports skeletal development.

Maintain good eyesight

Vitamin A, an antioxidant found in capers, helps maintain good eyesight, especially later in life. Vitamin A is also linked to a reduced risk of age-related eye problems including macular degeneration, cataracts and vision loss.

Aid in digestion

Adequate fiber intake is the key to proper digestion. Thanks to its rich fiber content, capers help regulate bowel movement and prevent digestive problems like constipation and diarrhea. Fiber also works alongside riboflavin, a B complex vitamin, to boost metabolism and energy production.

Support cardiovascular health

Rutin, a plant compound found in capers, supports blood circulation and ensures that blood vessels are neither dilated nor constricted, which are telltale signs of abnormally low or high blood pressure. Capers also contain niacin, a B complex vitamin that supports heart health and minimizes the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Relieve joint pain

Capers have been traditionally used as a remedy for joint pain caused by arthritis due to the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties. Capers may also potentially relieve chronic inflammation and ease inflammatory markers, such as the C-reactive protein in the liver.

Support healthy weight management

Thanks to high levels of fiber, capers help support weight loss efforts. Fiber makes you feel full for longer periods, which can discourage cravings, snacks in between meals and overeating. The spiciness of the buds can also help improve appetite and boost metabolism.

Regulate blood sugar levels

Regular consumption of capers can potentially stabilize blood sugar levels. When you lose weight as a result of a healthy diet and regular exercise, the risk of metabolic disorders like Type 2 diabetes naturally decreases. The anti-inflammatory effects of capers help boost this reduction and sustain it over time.

Ease nasal congestion

Capers are also used as a natural decongestant. The strong, tart flavor of the buds help to naturally clear excess mucus stuck inside the nasal tract. Capers also help you regurgitate phlegm to get rid of coughs and colds fast.

Moisturize dry skin

Capers also contain a decent amount of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps maintain firm and healthy skin. Adequate levels of vitamin E can moisturize skin, and keep it from drying out again.

Treat skin irritation and infection

Capers possess powerful antimicrobial compounds that can inhibit bacterial growth. For instance, capers can prevent acne breakouts and treat irritated skin. Additionally, vitamin E helps prevent premature aging that causes wrinkles and loose skin.

Boost hair growth

Caper oil is a popular ingredient in natural hair products due to its concentrated iron and biotin content. Iron helps promote blood circulation in the scalp, which activates any inactive hair follicle. Biotin, on the other hand, is a type of B complex vitamin that helps thicken hair strands.

Capers add a bold and distinct flavor to many dishes, even non-Meditteranean ones. Although this superfood tends to be overlooked in favor of tastier foods, they surprisingly have several health benefits that help improve overall health and well-being.

Sources:

CMS.HerbalGram.org

StyleCraze.com