That’s one way to turn up the heat!
Below-freezing temperatures and blustery winds aren’t pleasant for anyone, but they were especially brutal for the LA Rams, who are accustomed to warm and sunny weather.
It’s no surprise then that some players turned to an unusual and spicy tactic to stay warm during Sunday’s frigid overtime playoff game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago.
The hot trick up their sleeves? They put cayenne pepper in their socks. Rams nose tackle Poona Ford showed off his yellow-and-orange-tinted sock after the game and assured that it helps.
The unconventional method seemed to give the Rams an extra kick, as they won the thriller on a 42-yard field goal by kicker Harrison Mevis, but what’s the science behind it?
Cayenne does pack a beneficial punch beyond just warding off a modern-day cold.
The spicy pepper has been shown to improve circulation and blood flow throughout the body.
This is thanks to a compound called capsaicin, which is what gives the red pepper its signature spicy, moderately hot flavor.
When consumed as a supplement, capsaicin boasts several health perks, including reducing inflammation, relieving pain, lowering blood sugar and more.
When applied to the skin, blood vessels widen, allowing for an influx of warm blood and creating a warm sensation.
However, there can be a burning feeling if too much topical capsaicin is used.
The Practical Herbalist recommends 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne powder mixed with 1 ounce of foot powder.
Only put 1 teaspoon in your socks and distribute the powder by scrunching the sock.
Beyond warming up cold toes, cayenne peppers can also protect your heart.
One study found that people who regularly ate chili peppers were 13% less likely to die prematurely than people who avoided spicy fare, thanks to a lower risk of heart-related diseases.
They also come out on top in terms of antioxidant levels when compared to other peppers.
These superstar compounds can strengthen cellular function and reduce oxidative stress, lowering our risk of cancer.
There’s also evidence that adding some spice to your diet can help rev up weight loss by boosting metabolism and helping you feel fuller sooner after a meal.
