Spicy food can contribute to losing extra pounds. It’s not a myth – apart from the fact that spicy products generally have a good effect on health, it has also been proven that they speed up metabolism. Therefore, if you want to lose weight, you should love what’s spicy!
Of course, some diseases, such as stomach ulcers, exclude spicy dishes from the menu. However, if we do not have any contraindications, it is worth adding a little more spice to your daily diet. However – like almost everything in the world – spicy in excess is harmful, so let’s keep it in moderation. It must not be combined with heavy, fatty food. Only then will this type of food bring the intended slimming effect.
Why does spicy speed up your metabolism?
The reason for everything here is capsaicin, a substance present in chili peppers. This is what makes them taste so spicy. It is constantly tested and its properties are checked. Among the most commonly known is the action of accelerating metabolism, and therefore it supports slimming. It also affects the dilation of blood vessels, which is why it lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Another advantage of it is the fact that it prevents food poisoning, so when you are in a tropical country and you are worried about your stomach, it is best to choose spicier dishes.
Capsaicin is often used as an ingredient in warming and pain-relieving ointments. In addition to chili, we find it in curry and various types of pepper. However, the highest concentration of this substance is in chili. Despite the controversy that has arisen around capsaicin, it turns out that it does not have a carcinogenic effect (as suggested), but rather inhibits the growth of cancer cells. However, only in the form taken through food – it is better not to take it externally, because research is still underway to see if it contributes to the formation of skin cancer.
What if I don’t like spicy?
Of course, you don’t have to reach for the spiciest Thai soups and chili peppers right away – it’s enough to spice well-known and liked dishes a bit differently than usual, gradually introduce new flavors. In this form, you can eat both vegetables, meat and fish, and for seasoning it is worth using:
- Curry,
- Chili – fresh, dry, powdered,
- Pepper of all kinds – cayenne, green, black, white, colored,
- Garlic,
- Ginger,
- turmeric,
- Paprika.
Each of these spices has a different degree of spiciness and taste, so you need to watch your body and its reactions. Do not exaggerate with this type of spices, and judicious use of them will certainly bring the intended results.