Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people, both children and adults. The key characteristics are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Because of many obstacles, researchers have been searching for other therapies—inclining to include diet intervention to control the symptoms of ADHD more effectively. One interesting area of research is that for chili peppers! Yes, you read it correctly, scientists are studying the effects of chilli peppers in order to help ease symptoms of ADHD through their action on gut microbiota and the gut-brain axis.

The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a two-way communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract with the central nervous system. It has significant roles in brain function, emotional control, and cognitive processes. The most recent research indicates that gut microbiota- bacteria living in the digestive system can potentially affect ADHD by impacting the production of neurotransmitters and brain structure.

People with ADHD tend to have reduced levels of healthy gut bacteria, including Lactobacillus, and a less diverse gut microbiota. This imbalance can contribute to greater neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are involved in ADHD pathology.

Gut microbiota also control the production of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters critical for attention, impulse control, and emotional stability.

Can Chili Peppers Be A Natural Treatment For ADHD?

Chili peppers have bioactive molecules, such as capsaicin, vitamin C, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), that could affect symptoms of ADHD through modulation of the gut microbiota and neurotransmitter concentration.

Capsaicin, the phytochemical in chili peppers, has been found to modulate neurotransmitter levels. Experiments with animals reveal that capsaicin boosts the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which has the potential to enhance attention and impulse control.

Additionally, capsaicin has been shown to inhibit neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are associated with ADHD pathology. Through the reduction of these variables, capsaicin could help to decrease some ADHD symptoms. While animal models offer promising information, human studies are needed to ascertain if capsaicin supplementation can produce a concrete effect on ADHD symptoms.

Role of Vitamin C and Gut Microbiobe

Chili peppers are a rich source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that enhances immune function, neurotransmitter production, and iron absorption. New evidence indicates that vitamin C can also increase the prevalence of helpful microbes such as Lachnospiraceae in the gut microbiota. Gut microbial balance has been implicated in neurodevelopmental diseases such as ADHD, and vitamin C's activity in regulating gut microbes could potentially be used as a therapy.

Moreover, vitamin C also decreases brain inflammation, which tends to be higher in patients with ADHD.

Chili peppers are also rich in PUFAs, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Studies have established that patients with ADHD tend to have lower levels of omega-3 PUFAs, which are important for brain function, synaptic plasticity, and regulation of neurotransmitters. Omega-3 supplementation has been shown to enhance memory function and boost short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing gut bacteria, which promote brain and gut health.

Given that PUFAs have anti-inflammatory properties and maintain cognitive function, their occurrence in chili peppers contributes to the accumulating data indicating dietary intervention may be effective in modulating ADHD symptoms.

Although chili peppers have bioactive substances that could affect the gut-brain axis and help alleviate ADHD symptoms, their impact is speculative until stricter human trials are carried out. Being a readily available food item, peppers can be used as a possible adjunct therapy, which can be added to conventional ADHD treatments. Peppers, however, cannot be used as a substitute for established medical therapies, including behavioral therapy and prescription drugs.

The developing connection between nutrition, gut microbiome, and ADHD has paved the way for exploring non-medication interventions. Chili peppers, rich in capsaicin, vitamin C, and PUFAs, represent a novel yet unproven method for modulating ADHD symptoms. While early research points towards a possible intervention by chili peppers in modulating neurotransmitter content and minimizing neuroinflammation, human studies are essential to validate the observations.

Pads are made of synthetic fibres that cause rashes and bacterial infections that further lead to serious problems such as Reproductive Tract Infections, skin irritation, Urinary Tract Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis.

Every month millions of synthetic pads are discarded and many suffer from serious menstrual hygiene problems. Officials note that about 70 percent of reproductive diseases in India are linked to poor menstrual hygiene, affecting nearly 120 million adolescent girls.

Dr Richa Singhal, senior consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, at Cloud Nine Hospital in Delhi's Patparganj notes: ''A sanitary pad's top-sheet contacts sensitive intimate skin for several days each month."

Poor hygiene, such as reusing unclean cloths or not changing materials frequently, causes infections and itching, rashes, foul odor can increase the chances of cervical cancer.

Here are some alternatives that can replace synthetic pads and prevent serious health issues:

Moringa PadsMoringa, also known as miracle tree, can be consumed in the form of powder, leaves or tablets. Used for its medicinal properties, it has as a 5,000-year history, deeply rooted in Ayurveda for medicinal use.

In modern times, gynaecologists recommend moringa based pads to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections during menstruation.

It is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which make it suitable for intimate areas and menstrual care.

Packed with high levels of Vitamin E and fatty acids which strengthen skin barriers and prevent chafing, viable for those who have extended periods. Rich in bioactive compounds, it supports vaginal health by balancing PH level making it suitable for menstrual pads.

These pads can reduce the risk of skin infections, UTIs and yeast infections.

Cotton Reusable Pads

Period Underwear

The switch from white sugar to natural sweeteners like honey, dates and coconut sugar are becoming popular as people grow more away of the side effects of refined sugar.

Among these, monk fruit stands out as a low-calorie alternative that supports metabolic health.

According to National Institutes of Health, consuming white sugar results in allergic reactions and severe metabolic effects and cardiovascular effects. Medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver diseases.

Monk fruit

Monk fruit sweeteners are produced by removing the seeds and skin, crushing the fruit, and then extracting its sweet portions into liquid and powdered forms. Its extracts are being used in sweeteners, packaged foods and beverages.

The International Food Information Council recommends this fruit-based sweetener to diabetic individuals to satisfy their desire for sweet taste while managing sugar intake.

Which Other Natural Sweeteners Can You Use?

Natural sugar is the naturally occurring sweetness in food, they are derived from natural sources like plants, fruits or tree ap, rather than being refined chemically.

They are packed with nutrients that help offset some of the negative aspects of the sugar content. They are comparatively less processed and contain lower glycemic acid which prevents sudden blood sugar spikes.

The key is not eliminating sugar from your diet but replacing it with healthier options like:

1. Fruit JuiceFruit juice is a healthier alternative when made without preservatives or added sugars, but fibre content is low compared to raw fruit.

Bananas, berries and mangoes are good as fruits that contain natural sweetness, they are packed with nutrients that boost immunity.

2. Honey and Maple Syrup

They act as an effective cough remedy and can be added to oatmeal, yogurt or act as a substitute of sugar in tea and coffee. It also helps in lowering blood pressure and stabilizing digestive health.

3. Dates and Rasins

Whole or powdered dates can be added to hot milk or even cakes to make them healthier.

When you lift heavy or workout, you feel like your muscles have been strained, this is because before you muscles are build, there are small muscle ruptures. More than exercise, what matters is what you eat to help you muscles recover. The process is called hypertrophy, when intentional, controlled micro-tears caused by resistance training trigger the body to repair and strengthen muscle fibers. This process requires a specific cycle of damage, rest, and nutrition to be effective.

University of North Carolina Health Wellness Services manager and a certified personal trainer Kathy DeBlasio also explains, "You make microtears in your muscles when you work them. As you heal, you gain muscle and strength." She explains that these tiny tears cause you to feel pain, but they heal within 24 to 48 hours. What matters the most is your diet. There are different foods that help you recover your muscles. Here is a list of 6 foods for you to consume for muscle recovery.

Chicken

Duke Health notes that chicken breast is a lean source of high-quality protein essential for repairing and building muscles. It is also rich in amino acids, especially leucine, which is important for muscle synthesis. A 2024 study in Physiological Reports, noted that chicken intake, combined with resistance training on muscle mass has helped improve strength and muscle mass of elderly women.

Cottage Cheese

Registered dietitian Maddie Pasquariello, RD told Paloton, “Cottage cheese can be a very nutritious addition to your diet from both a macro- and micronutrient standpoint." Pasquariello explained that half-cup serving of full-fat cottage cheese packs around 13 grams of protein. It helps as a building block of muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, hair, and nails. It also helps build and repair tissue. It oxygenates red blood cells to nourish your body with nutrients, helps regulate hormones, supports the production of enzymes used to digest food and create new cells. It also helps in repairing and building muscles.

Potatoes

A 2022 study published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (MSSE) notes that that potatoes contain a 1.5 per cent protein based on their based on their fresh weight. However, when potatoes are used for starch extraction, a residue remains, that can be used to extract potato protein. Ingestion of 30 g potato protein concentrate increases muscle protein synthesis rates both at rest and during recovery from exercise.

Read: 14 Drinks Or More A Week Could Increase You Risk Of Colon Cancer By 25%

Pomegranate Juice

A 2016 study published in PLOS One notes that pomegranate supplementation accelerates recovery of muscle damage and soreness and inflammatory markers after a weightlifting training session. The study notes: "optimal dose of pomegranate supplementation, showed that either once-daily or twice-daily dietary pomegranate juice supplementation improves strength recovery of both leg and arm muscles after an unaccustomed eccentric exercise."

Eggs

Natalie Rizzo, MS, RD, a registered dietitian, specializing in sports writes: "Eggs have a unique nutrition profile that is great for athletes of all ages. While they make a nice addition to any meal of the day, the nutrients in eggs can help with recovery after exercise."

Fatty Fish

A 2024 study published in Clinical Nutrition ESPEN notes that omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish could help increase muscle strength, however it does not increase in muscular mass. The study notes: "The interventions of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and resistance training show promise as a countermeasure against muscular dysfunction."