People who consume chili pepper may live longer according to preliminary research according to a report shared today by the American Association for Critical Illness insurance.  The organization maintains it's Healthy Habits online News Center.

"Eating chili pepper has some positive health results," shares Jesse Slome, director of the critical illness insurance group.  "The research finds they may also face a significantly reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer."

According to Slome, the research findings will be presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2020.   "Health and dietary records of over 570,000 individuals were used to compare the outcomes of those who consumed chili pepper to those who rarely or never ate chili pepper."

Those included in the research came lived in the United States, Italy, China and Iran.   The analysis found that people who ate chili pepper had a 26% relative reduction in cardiovascular mortality.  They also had a 23% relative reduction in cancer mortality and a 25% relative reduction in all-cause mortality.

Prior studies reported benefits of eating chili peppers that contain an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer and blood-glucose regulating effect.  According to the scientists, the effect is due to capsaicin, something that gives chili peppers its characteristic mild to intense spice when eaten.

The researchers noted that dietary factors play an important role in overall health.  They note that the exact reasons and mechanisms that might explain their findings regarding health benefits of chili pepper are currently unknown. Therefore, they noted that it is impossible to conclusively say that eating more chili peppers can prolong life and reduce deaths, especially from cardiovascular factors or cancer. 

Founded in 2009, the American Association for Critical Illness Insurance (AACII) advocates for the importance of planning for the risks and financial consequences associated with cancer and other critical illnesses.   To learn more or access the free Critical Illness Insurance Cost Calculator visit the organization's website at www.criticalillnessinsuranceinfo.org.