The effect of chili pepper consumption on weight control has been scientifically demonstrated

In a study conducted by Dr. Paige Cunningham and her team at Pennsylvania State University, it was determined that adding chili peppers to meals in a way that does not spoil the flavor can help people eat less. In the research published in the journal Food Quality and Preference, it was observed that as the spiciness added to the meal increased, the speed of eating slowed down and the amount consumed decreased.

Capsaicin, the main component of chili peppers, is known to speed up metabolism by triggering heat production in the body.

Haley Robinson, a clinical dietitian at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, stated that capsaicin raises body temperature and thereby accelerates calorie burning. Scientific data reveals that capsaicin can provide an increase of approximately 5 percent in metabolic rate.

It is also stated that chili peppers and spices can be effective on appetite. It is observed that individuals who frequently consume spicy foods tend to eat less during the day. Patricia Bridget Lane, a dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic, reported that there are findings suggesting that capsaicin may be effective on the hypothalamus, which regulates appetite and the feeling of satiety.

Although very hot varieties such as the Carolina Reaper and ghost pepper contain high levels of capsaicin, there is no definitive scientific evidence yet that they provide extra health benefits. While capsaicin is the main ingredient in red pepper and chili flakes, it is noted that different types of peppers can also show similar effects.

Research conducted at Harvard University has revealed that those who regularly consume chili peppers may have a lower risk of death due to heart disease. It was reported that those who consume spicy foods almost every day have a 14 percent lower risk of death compared to those who consume them once a week.

However, experts emphasize that portion control should be paid attention to while benefiting from the advantages of chili peppers. Dr. Thomas Holland from Rush University pointed out that chili peppers are often consumed with high-fat and high-calorie foods, stating that this situation may pose a risk in terms of healthy nutrition. For this reason, it is recommended that chili peppers be consumed as part of a balanced and healthy diet.

News Source: 12punto