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Cayenne Pepper for Weight Loss

Rutuja Jathar
Studies show that the use of cayenne pepper may help burn calories and curb the appetite.
These benefits are a great news for the salsa and chili sauce lovers. The following article provides information about the various health benefits and side effects of this pepper.
Cayenne pepper belongs to the capsicum family. It is a perennial plant which is grown in the tropical and sub tropical regions. It is mostly used as the prime spice in many cuisines. It is also dried and made into powder for many medicinal purposes. There are many studies which favor the use of this pepper for weight loss, however, many studies also criticize its use.

Health Benefits

The benefits of this pepper are many as compared to its side effects. It is a great digestion stimulant that also fastens the muscle movement in the intestine which leads to absorption of more nutrients from the food. This pepper also benefits the blood circulation from the peripheral region of the body, and this is the reason why it is combined with various herbal medicines.
Consumption of this pepper elevates the body temperature which helps to stimulate the mucus from the respiratory tract. This is also called the diaphoretic property of the pepper, that helps reduce fever, chest congestion, and sinusitis.
The pepper is also a good home remedy to cure mild to high blood pressure along with high cholesterol levels. It is also used to cure muscle and joint pain. The pepper has its significant effect on long-lasting and chronic pain.

Weight Loss

Also known as master cleanse diet, the cayenne pepper diet was made extremely popular by the actress and singing sensation Beyonce Knowles. She made it popular to such an extent that it is now also recognized as the "Beyonce Knowles Diet". The diet is not a miracle diet, that may show its effect overnight. But yes, it does speed up the process.
When a person consumes this pepper on a regular basis, it may increase the rate of metabolism of that person to up to 25% more than the normal. Regular intake improves the functions of the viscera and other systems like the glandular, digestive system, and lymphatic systems of the body. This pepper is actually a great detoxifying agent that may help in the process of weight loss.
The increased metabolism makes you lose weight faster. Apart from this, it also improves the working of the heart which helps maintain good heart health. When this pepper is combined with other exercises like aerobics, running, etc., it helps reduce weight. One of the main compound present in this pepper is capsaicin, which helps you burn calories the same way as the exercises.

Side Effects

Cayenne pepper is supposedly a safe herb that may show no side effects, if taken according to the recommended dosage. However, in some cases side effects like diarrhea, heart burn, stomach upset, and burning sensation during the bowel movements may be observed.
If taken externally, it may cause skin irritation, therefore try to avoid its contact with eyes, nose, any external organ, or broken skin. It is best to consult the physician or your health care provider regarding the exact dosage of this pepper.
There are also many pills of this pepper available in the market that can help you lose weight, but they must also be used with proper advice from a qualified person.
Remember that consumption of this pepper alone cannot help you lose weight. Combination of the pepper with daily exercise routine is required to help you in the process of weight loss.