Want to live a long and healthy life? Have chilli pepper

Everyone desires to live a long and healthy life. And in our desire for longevity, we do not even refrain to go the extra mile and try unconventional stuff like herbal churan and Ayurvedic tea. But what if we told you that the actual secret to a long life is already present in your kitchen and you just have to use it effectively. As per a new study, chilli pepper contains compounds that can add some years to your life, allowing you to enjoy your life to the fullest.

The study
A new study published by the American Heart Association (AHA) at a virtual conference “Scientific Sessions 2020” verified that consuming chilli pepper on a regular basis can help people live longer. The study clearly outlined that the common spicing ingredient contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer and blood-glucose regulating properties. All these things can reduce a person's risk of early death from cardiac and chronic diseases like cancer. The researchers came to this conclusion after carefully examining more than 570,000 health records of people from the US, Italy, China and Iran. It was found that people who had chilli peppers regularly were 26 per cent less likely to die due to cardiovascular issue, 23 per cent relative reduction in cancer mortality; and a 25 per cent in all-cause mortality.

How is chilli pepper helpful?
Chilli is not used for making food spicy, but it is also known for some amazing health benefits. It is loaded with capsaicin, which may help to dampen inflammation and other harmful processes involved in the buildup of fatty plaque in arteries. It is also high in antioxidant carotenoids, which are linked with numerous health benefits.

Previous study
This is not the first time when a study has highlighted the importance of consuming chilli pepper for increasing life expectancy. As per a previous study published in PLOS ONE, eating it regularly can lower the risk of death by 13 per cent. The heat in this spice boosts metabolism, makes us feel fuller and even promotes weight loss. It is also helpful in providing relief from back pain, headache, nausea and vomiting.

How many chilli pepper one can eat in a day One should not have more than 12 to 15 grams of chilli in a day. Overeating this spicing ingredient can lead to acidity, burning sensation in the gut, cramps and pain diarrhoea.