The Best Fat-Burning Foods Part 6

Chili Peppers

Studies have shown a thermogenic effect of capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers. When chili-containing meals have been fed to subjects regularly for 4 weeks, results have shown an attenuation of high blood insulin levels after the meals. While weight loss was not studied, a lowering of blood insulin levels in overweight subjects may ultimately lead to weight loss. Other studies using a capsaicin supplement have been shown to be effective, but the dosage must be strictly followed. One Danish study using a supplement combining green tea extract, capsaicin, tyrosine and calcium for 7 days showed a 2% increase in energy expenditure in overweight and obese men. The researchers found that only the capsules that were not enterocoated were effective. The coating, which inhibits digestion in the stomach, inactivated the efficacy of capsaicin.