In a recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition , researchers explored the association between chili pepper intake frequency and the risk of obesity. Study: Does chili pepper consumption affect BMI and obesity risk? A cross-sectional analysis . Image Credit: Maryia_K / Shutterstock.
com Achieving an energy balance through a healthy diet and physical activity is considered the best strategy to combat obesity. Obesity is a chronic metabolic condition defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m 2 or more. Owing to its rising prevalence throughout the world, obesity has become a major public health concern.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), about 35% of males and 40% of females in the United States are affected by obesity. Obesity is associated with various health complications, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, kidney and liver diseases, as well as certain cancers. Numerous studies have evaluated the health benefits of spices and herbs, including chili peppers.
Capsaicin, an active ingredient in chili peppers, has shown promising outcomes in the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases. Regarding obesity management, chili peppers have been found to increase energy expenditure, reduce appetite and energy intake, and improve lipid oxidation. Nevertheless, previous studies investigating the association between chili pepper intake and obesity risk have prod.
