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Capsaicin: Weight Loss Miracle? |
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Many have heard the buzz about chili peppers and how they can potentially help suppress appetite. Specifically, it is thought that a component of chili peppers called capsaicin is responsible for the appetite suppression. One theory is that capsaicin increases the body’s metabolism by increasing levels of epinephrine. This is one of the chemicals involved in the body’s “fight or flight” response. There have been several studies done over the years on capsaicin and its potential weight loss effects. One of the newest studies from UCLA concluded that capsaicin supplements increased the number of calories that were burned for several hours after they were taken. Unfortunately this study only looked at the effects after taking one dose of capsaicin and didn’t address the effects of capsaicin supplements on calories burned over time or on weight loss.
One of the most interesting studies was done several years ago by Dutch scientists. It showed that those who took capsaicin 30 minutes before a meal decreased their food intake by 8 percent. Even more interesting, the study showed that taking capsaicin with tomato juice had even better results, cutting food intake by a whopping 28 percent!
With few reported side effects when taken by mouth, capsaicin may be a viable tool for those looking for an appetite suppressant. If you chose to take a capsaicin supplement, make sure to take the product only as directed. It is also important to consult your doctor before taking capsaicin supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.
Dr. Larson is a pharmacist, author of Empowered Medicine; A Guide for Consumers and creator of Empowered Medicine. You can read more about her by visiting www.EmpoweredMedicine.com and clicking on the 'About Us' tab. EmpoweredMedicine.com is committed to providing evidence-based medical information from a pharmacist's point of view
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