Photo from CNN
Vandana Dubakula
With the new internet trend of trying hot sauces of different levels of spiciness, many spectators are left wondering if spicy foods can be dangerous to consume. On the contrary, there are several studies suggesting that spicy foods have benefits.
For instance, in an experiment in tumor-prone mice, capsaicin (an active component of chili peppers) decreased tumor development. There is also evidence that spicy foods tend to increase satiety via an effect of capsaicin on the nervous system. This effect may also increase the rate of metabolism. Consequently, some people believe that spicy foods can help with obesity.
One drawback however, is that capsaicin can cause tissue inflammation. A large dose of peppers can irritate the stomach and intestinal mucosa which may lead to the burning feeling you get after consuming very spicy foods.
In moderation, spicy foods may have various health benefits. So do not shy away from adding a pepper or two to spice up your dinner!
https://www.livescience.com/16556-spicy-food-fatal-chili-peppers.html
https://www.pushdoctor.co.uk/blog/what-does-spicy-food-do-to-your-body