Study finds association between frequent chilli pepper intake and obesity risk - Video

In a recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, researchers explored the association between chili pepper intake frequency and the risk of obesity.

Achieving an energy balance through a healthy diet and physical activity is considered the best strategy to combat obesity. 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 11% of males and 15% of females are affected by obesity worldwide. 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 produced mixed results.

In the study, scientists investigated the association between chili intake frequency, BMI, and obesity prevalence in the general population. Data were obtained from the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), analyzing information from 6,138 participants. Data on chili intake frequency were collected using a food frequency questionnaire, and participants were divided into three groups based on this information: no chili intake, occasional chili intake, and frequent chili intake. Participants' height and weight were used to calculate BMI, with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or more considered obese.

Based on questionnaire responses, the study population was divided into three groups: 16.8% with no chili intake, 74% with occasional chili intake, and 9.2% with frequent chili intake. No significant differences in BMI were found between the chili intake groups. However, frequent chili consumers had an average BMI 0.71 units higher than non-consumers and a 55% greater risk of developing obesity compared to non-consumers.

Frequent chili intake was found to significantly increase BMI and obesity risk, particularly among females. Notably, chili peppers are often consumed with high-fat, high-calorie foods, contributing to unhealthy dietary patterns linked to weight gain.

Overall, the study suggested that reducing chili pepper intake could help lower the risk of weight gain and obesity.

Reference: Liu, M., Zhu, Y., & Wang, F. (2024). Does chili pepper consumption affect BMI and obesity risk? A cross-sectional analysis. Frontiers in Nutrition. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1410256/full