New study says people who regularly eat chili peppers can live longer and have a "significantly reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer."
Scientists observed 4,729 studies of chili peppers, including four large studies that examined the health implications of consuming spicy fruits (yes, fruits).
The team then looked at data on the health and diet of some 570,000 people across Italy, Iran, China and the United States, in an attempt to compare the health of those who regularly consume chili peppers with those who rarely eat or ever.
Overall, the study concluded that they are less likely to die from cancer or heart problems, with a relative reduction of 26% in cardiovascular mortality, a 23% reduction in cancer mortality, and a 25% reduction in overall mortality.
Bo Xu, lead author of the study and cardiologist, explained to The Independent:
"We were surprised to find that in these previously published studies, regular consumption of chili peppers was associated with an overall reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality from all causes."
This emphasizes that dietary factors can play an important role in overall health.
However, he went on to add:
"The exact reasons and mechanisms that may explain our findings, however, are currently unknown. "Therefore, it is impossible to say conclusively that eating more chili peppers can prolong life and reduce deaths, especially from cardiovascular factors or cancer."
More research, especially evidence from randomly controlled studies, is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
As a result of the analysis of a number of different studies, conducted by a number of different international groups, the amount and type of chili peppers consumed varied greatly, making it impossible to determine how much spicy taste or what the specific type of chili spice that contributes the most to the claimed health benefits.
The team is continuing research on the effects of chili consumption and once they have completed the analysis of their data, the full paper is expected to be published.
Source: Unilad, The Independent
