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A PINCH OF CHILI A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY

published on 05/10/2024 A pinch of chili a day keeps the doctor away... and burns calories!
Chili peppers, thanks to capsaicin, the substance responsible for their spiciness, can have remarkable effects on metabolism. This active component has been widely studied for its ability to positively influence calorie consumption and weight control, making chili a valuable ally for those looking to boost their metabolism.

Increased Thermogenesis
One of the main benefits of daily chili consumption is its thermogenic effect. Capsaicin stimulates thermogenesis, a process that increases body heat production. Essentially, when we eat chili, our bodies must burn more calories to maintain a stable body temperature. This leads to an increase in basal metabolism, which is the number of calories burned even at rest. Although the immediate effect may seem mild, in the long term, it can contribute to weight management, with an estimated loss of about 0.5-1 kg per year, if accompanied by a balanced diet.

Reduced Appetite
Capsaicin not only speeds up metabolism but also contributes to a greater feeling of fullness. Consuming chili before or during meals can reduce the amount of food ingested, thanks to its ability to stimulate neurotransmitters that regulate the feeling of satiety. Studies have shown that those who regularly consume chili tend to eat smaller portions and feel satisfied more quickly, aiding in calorie intake control.

Increased Fat Burning
Chili can also enhance the body's ability to burn fat. Capsaicin promotes the use of fats as an energy source, reducing the accumulation of body fat. Additionally, it positively affects lipolysis, the process that breaks down fats stored in fat cells, allowing the body to use them as fuel. This makes daily chili consumption a potential ally for those looking to maintain a healthy body composition or lose weight.

Heart Health Benefits
Beyond its effects on metabolism, regular chili consumption can improve cardiovascular health. Capsaicin helps reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the so-called bad cholesterol) and improve levels of HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol). Moreover, its vasodilatory properties help improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure, lowering the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

Effects on Blood Sugar Levels
Capsaicin may also help regulate blood sugar levels. Regularly consuming chili can improve insulin sensitivity, a key factor in maintaining stable blood sugar, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggest that capsaicin can reduce blood sugar spikes after meals, thereby improving weight control and diabetes management.

In summary, incorporating chili into your daily diet not only makes dishes tastier but can also offer numerous health and metabolic benefits.