Do Chili Peppers Make You Live Longer?

Mild, medium or hot? It’s a question that every Indian waiter loves to ask. And now, a new study is suggesting that the answer could increase life expectancy by 13%. Conducted by scientists at the University of Vermont, the study found that those who “like it hot” live longer than their spice reluctant counterparts. The study backs up centuries of data indicating that chili and other spices have genuine medicinal properties, and can even be used to help prevent and treat some diseases.

The findings were published in the journal PLOS One, and drew on data gathered by the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey. More than 16,000 Americans took part, with the survey carried out over a 23-year period.

Spice up your life for a 13% lower mortality rate

In a surprise discovery, the researchers found that the total mortality rate was 21.6% for chili eating participants, and 33.6% for those who avoided the heat. Even after adjusting results to factor in lifestyle, demographic and clinical characteristics, the team still found that those who ate hot peppers enjoyed a 13% lower mortality rate. Furthermore, cases of cardiovascular disease and stroke were also lower within this group.

Interestingly, the researchers confirmed that lifestyle didn’t play a key role in extending the life expectancy of chili eaters. Unsurprisingly, the highest consumers tended to be young males of Mexican-American descent. While most had low cholesterol counts and plenty of meat and vegetables in their diets, they were also more likely to smoke and drink, as well as survive on lower incomes.

‘Capsaicin receptors’ are key

Instead, the team put the results down to Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels, which act as primary receptors for spicy agents like hot chili. Also known as capsaicin receptors, they stimulate the cellular mechanisms that regulate coronary blood flow and prevent obesity. As a result, they play a key role in lowering the risk of heart disease, and ultimately death. Chili peppers are also a bona fide source of vitamins A, B, and C, which could help to stimulate the immune system, and contribute to a healthier and more disease resistant body.

So, will chili peppers be making an appearance in the pharmacy anytime soon? According to co-author Mustafa Chopan, the answer could be yes.

"Because our study adds to the generalizability of previous findings, chili pepper – or even spicy food – consumption may become a dietary recommendation and/or fuel further research in the form of clinical trials," he commented in a statement.

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