What Are the Health Benefits of Spicy Foods?

3. Boost Metabolism and Burns Calories

Many people break out into a sweat while eating hot and spicy foods like Indian vindaloo or Sichuan hot-pot. It turns out this sweating, much like the results of a good workout, helps the body to burn calories. The New York Times reported eating a spicy meal can increase the body’s calorie-burning activity by 8%. The potent heat of spicy foods boosts metabolism, forcing it to work faster. Dieters often turn to spicy foods to help them achieve their weight-loss goals.

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