Can Spicy Foods Raise Metabolism?

Spicy items are often on lists of foods that raise metabolism. If you're trying to lose weight or help your body burn fat, combining spicy foods with other changes could help. Aside from eating hot spices, drinking more water, exercising and having a few cups of green tea a day can all help increase metabolism, according to Cynthia Phillips in the book, "100 Ways to Supercharge Your Metabolism: Get Your Body to Burn More Fat and Calories."

How It Works

Capsaicin raises your body's internal temperature. This internal kick causes your body to burn more calories, even at rest, for several hours after your meal. Hot peppers in particular are high in capsaicin. The component can cause a rise in metabolism and might help with weight loss. Tumeric spice has a similar effect, according to DiagnoseMe.com. Spicy mustard, curry powder, Cajun seasonings, chili powder and cayenne pepper all fall into the same group of metabolism-friendly spices.

Studies

A 2007 study published in the "American Journal of Physiology" showed that capsaicin might raise metabolism and help with weight loss, but there's a catch. According to the study, the amount of capsaicin needed to provide a very noticeable effect is too large and scientists have not yet found a way to administer it. To achieve that significant effect, the capsaicin would have to be in pill form, injection or other high-concentration method, not just through food.

Significance

Although spicy foods do seem to raise metabolism, the numbers are not as impressive as you might think. According to a 2006 article in "The New York Times," eating spicy food can raise your metabolism by just about 8 percent. What this means depends greatly on your weight, physical condition and other factors. It could mean an additional burn of a few calories per day or an almost negligible difference.

Weight Loss

The 2007 study showed capsaicin to be effective in "mobilizing lipids." This means the compound can help speed up fat burning and reduce adipose tissue mass. In addition to fat burning, capsaicin has another diet-friendly effect: It reduces appetite. Eating spicy foods can reduce cravings and help you feel satiated with less, so you end up cutting calories without realizing it.