Visceral fat is known to be harmful, especially when present in large quantities that infiltrate internal organs. A study published in BMC Obesity focused on spices that help eradicate visceral fat. Chili peppers contain capsaicinoids, which are "responsible for enhanced metabolism." Seventy-five "healthy" volunteers were recruited for the experiment. Participants were evaluated concerning fat mass and body fat percentage before the experiment began and at its conclusion. By the end of the 12-week trial, those consuming 4 mg of capsaicinoids had a 5.91% lower body fat reading compared to the placebo. The percentage change in fat mass in the 4 mg capsaicinoid group, after 12 weeks of treatment, was 6.68% compared to the placebo. Consequently, the researchers concluded that there are "potential benefits of capsaicinoids on body fat and fat mass." They added, "Further studies are needed to explore the pharmacological, physiological, and metabolic benefits of chronic and acute capsaicinoid consumption."
Meanwhile, the American Heart Association noted other benefits of consuming chili peppers. It seems that chili peppers not only reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases but are also associated with fewer cancer fatalities. Researchers explained that "the consumption of chili peppers may reduce the relative risk of death from cardiovascular diseases by 26%." This was reported "according to dietary and mortality data analysis from four large international studies." Additionally, they stated, "Chili pepper consumption was associated with a 25% lower mortality rate for any cause and a 23% reduction in cancer mortality." It is worth noting that this was in comparison to "people who never or rarely consumed chili peppers." The reasons behind these positive findings related to chili pepper consumption are currently "unknown." However, there are numerous limitations in studies indicating that chili peppers are linked to better health outcomes. For example, the amount and type of chili pepper varied among studies. Furthermore, health data on participants were "limited."
