5 Reasons Why Spicy Food Can Be Your Healthy Friend, From Relieving Pain to Protecting Your Heart!

Kapanlagi.com - Spicy food has become a favorite for many people around the world, especially for those who enjoy the sensation of a biting taste. Spices like chili not only provide unparalleled deliciousness but also offer a culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

For fans of spicy dishes, there is good news from recent research showing that spicy food has more to offer than just tempting flavors; they also provide a variety of interesting health benefits to explore.

According to a report reviewed by Kapanlagi.com from People One Health on Wednesday (5/2/2025), spicy food can contribute to body health in surprising ways. From boosting metabolism to providing anti-inflammatory effects, the benefits offered by spicy food are quite diverse.

With a better understanding of these advantages, spicy food enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite dishes with more confidence, knowing that they are also providing positive support for their health.

1. Live Longer

Spices are not just flavor enhancers, but they can also be the key to extending your life!

An interesting study in 2015 involving over 500,000 people in China showed that those who enjoyed spicy food six to seven times a week, especially those containing fresh and dried chili, had a 14 percent lower risk of death compared to those who preferred bland dishes.

So, prepare your taste buds for a flavor adventure that not only tantalizes the palate but could also add precious years to your life!

2. Reducing Cancer Risk

An intriguing study conducted by the University of Texas and published in the journal Experimental Biology and Medicine revealed the remarkable potential of 41 common spices in fighting cancer.

This study showed that nutraceuticals found in spicy foods can slow down or even halt the growth of tumor cells.

Although further research is needed, these findings provide new hope that plant-based spices could be a healthier and more natural alternative to pharmaceutical drugs.

3. Helping to Lose Weight

Research shows that spicy foods, rich in capsaicin, ginger, and black pepper, can boost the body's metabolism by 8-10% with a slight increase in body temperature.

A study from Purdue University found that adding chili to dishes helps burn more calories.

Additionally, red chili can suppress appetite and reduce cravings for fatty, sweet, and salty foods.

Research in Canada showed that men who started with a spicy appetizer consumed 200 fewer calories during the main meal.

Spicy foods also make you eat more slowly, leading to feeling full faster and preventing overeating habits.

4. Make Your Heart Healthier

Chili can support heart health thanks to the capsaicin compound that helps lower bad cholesterol and improve blood circulation, according to a 2011 study by the American Chemical Society.

However, it is important to consume it in moderation, as emphasized by Dr. Zhen-Yu Chen. Capsaicin is beneficial, but it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.

5. Natural Pain Reliever

Although further research is needed, there is some evidence that chili peppers can act as an effective pain reliever.

Registered dietitian, Lisa Andrews, explains, "Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a compound known to help relieve pain."

Capsaicin is typically used in topical creams to reduce Substance P— a chemical compound that sends pain signals to the brain.

By consuming chili peppers, you can experience better pain reduction!

(kpl/rao)