Is Spicy Food Healthy? Benefits & Potential Risks

Question
Sorry if this sounds silly, but I really love spicy food. I sprinkle alot of tabasco and dried red pepper in various forms on everything. Is too much spice hard on the body? Can it be harmful when on a diet? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hello Sarah!

   Thank you for your nutrition question. Spicy food is completely acceptable as part of a healthy diet. In fact some studies suggest that spicy foods like red peppers can help to increase your metabolism(rate which you burn calories) and aid with weight loss.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com or your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com