Hot Chili Peppers May Extend Life

Eating hot chili peppers may
extend your life, according to a new study.

Researchers analyzed data from more than
16,000 people in America who were followed for an
average of nearly 19 years and found that
hot red chili pepper consumption was
associated with a 13 percent lower risk of
death, CBS News reported.

The study was published in the journal PLOS
One .

Since this was an observational study, it
offers no proof of a cause and effect
relationship, but does add to the growing
body of evidence that spicy foods may have
health benefits that can help people live
longer , according to the University of
Vermont researchers.
Previous studies have suggested that a spice
component called capsaicin may have anti-
obesity, antioxidant, anti- inflammation and
anti- cancer benefits. The authors of this
new study say capsaicin may also act as an
antimicrobial, CBS News reported.
The University of Vermont team called for
further research to investigate the benefits
of other spices and the effects of certain
chili pepper subtypes.
"Such evidence may lead to new insights
into the relationships between diet and
health, updated dietary recommendations,
and the development of new therapies," they
wrote.
But spicy dishes aren't suitable for everyone,
particularly those with gastrointestinal
problems.
"For those who are affected by digestive
disorders such as a stomach ulcer , I would
be cautious about eating spicy foods," Lu Qi,
Harvard School of Public Health and Brigham
and Women's Hospital in Boston, told CBS
News .
Qi was lead author of a 2015 study that
found regular consumption of spicy food is
associated with a lower risk of death.

Originally posted on webmd.com