Spicy foods may contribute to longer lifespan

Regular consumption of spicy foods has been associated with a 14% reduction in total mortality. This finding was observed in a massive study of half a million men and women in China. The potential benefits of spicy foods remained even after excluding sick individuals, suggesting that the association is not merely due to reverse causality. The protective effect of spicy food consumption was also seen in other countries, such as the United States and Italy. These findings suggest that minor dietary changes, such as adding chilies to the usual diet, may have a positive impact on health and could potentially improve longevity.