Love spicy food? A landmark study reveals that regular consumption of hot red chili peppers is associated with a 13% reduction in all-cause mortality—driven mainly by lower rates of heart disease and stroke deaths.
Drawing from data on over 16,000 Americans followed for up to 23 years, researchers noted that chili pepper eaters tended to be younger, male, white or Mexican-American, married, and more likely to smoke, drink alcohol, and eat vegetables and meat. They also had lower HDL cholesterol, income, and education compared to non-eaters.
Analyzing a median 18.9-year follow-up, the team evaluated overall death rates and specific causes, highlighting potential longevity benefits from this spicy staple.
