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 Do spicy foods increase metabolism significantly?
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Posted 2008-01-11, 03:29 PM
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I heard that eating spicy foods (ex. peppers) would somewhat increase you're metabolism about a year or so ago. Since then I've done a bit of research and found that they do by increasing body temperature and other things I can't exactly remember..
So what is you're opinion? If you are over-weight, or just want to keep your metabolism going, do you think spicy foods are a good source (In combination with a healthy diet and exercise of course)?
Here's what one website said:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/health...lthrail30.html
Quote:
Reality Check: Do spicy foods increase metabolism?
THE CLAIM
Spicy foods increase metabolism.
THE FACTS
Is it true, as has long been held, that spicy foods not only heat you up but also speed the metabolism?
Over the years, various studies have examined the claim and suggested that certain spices can increase metabolic rate by raising body temperature, though to what extent and for how long is unclear. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chile peppers their powerful kick, creates the largest bump in heat generation, which helps burn more calories immediately after a meal. Black pepper and ginger have similar effects.
Generally, studies have shown that on average a meal containing a spicy dish, such as a bowl of chili, can temporarily increase metabolism by about 8 percent over a person's normal rate, an amount considered fairly negligible. But besides a slight uptick in metabolism, spicy foods also may increase feelings of satiety.
One study by Canadian researchers this year looked at a group of adult men and found that those who were served hot sauce with appetizers before a meal went on to consume on average about 200 fewer calories at lunch and in later meals than their peers who did not have anything with capsaicin. The researchers suggested that capsaicin might work as an appetite suppressant. But take heed: Spicy foods also can worsen symptoms of ulcers and heartburn.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Research suggests that spicy foods can increase metabolism, though only to a minor extent.
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If anyone else wants to do some research on this topic also would be beneficial... *Looks at Mj*
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