How Spicy Foods Make You Healthier
Love it hot? Eating clean spicy foods one or two days a week might reduce your risk of death from cancer, heart and respiratory system diseases.
An international study led by researchers at the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences found some interesting results potentially linking the daily consumption of spicy foods to a lower risk of death. The researchers discovered that consuming spicy foods one or two days a week reduced participants’ risk of death from cancer, heart and respiratory system diseases by 10% compared with participants who consumed spicy foods less than once a week. Those who ate spicy foods such as fresh or dried chiles three to seven days a week reduced their risk by 14%.
It’s the active ingredients in chile that are believed to have beneficial effects: Fresh chile is rich in the anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting antioxidant capsaicin and the heart-healthy antioxidant vitamin C. Experts say that further research is required to determine whether there is a direct link between spicy foods and good health or whether those who frequently consume spicy foods practice other beneficial dietary or lifestyle habits. The bottom line: Try incorporating more heat into your meals as a part of eating clean. If you already love spicy Thai, Mexican or Indian dishes, you now have all the more reason to enjoy them.