Hot peppers are reported to aid dieters, and they are shown to prevent cancer. Hot peppers contain a molecule called capsaicin. Capsaicin is shown to stimulate the same conditions as Ephedra, which was used as a dietary supplement to improve metabolism and suppress appetites. Using hot peppers for dieting and weight control is a healthy way to shed pounds.
Significance
Hot peppers in the diet are shown to promote prostate cell death. Apoptosis is programmed cell death, which is lost in tumors. Capsaicin's heat properties induce apoptosis and show potential for use in cancer treatments.
Benefits
Not only do hot peppers help fight cancer, but they also suppress appetites. Capsaicin's biological action is shown to mimic a former diet drug called Ephedra.
Sources
Capsaicin is found in hot peppers' seeds and ribs. It's also found in the flesh of the vegetable in smaller amounts.
Myths
Hot peppers and other spicy foods are commonly associated with ulcers. Hot peppers might irritate stomachs, but they are not the cause in the development of ulcers.
Fun Fact
Capsaicin can also be added to fish and poultry, lowering the chance of food poisoning from salmonella.
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