What happens to your body when you eat spicy foods?

Not everyone likes spicy foods. This, of course, also often depends on where you are in the world. For instance, many people were raised on a diet where hot chili peppers were a staple in their nation's cuisine. But even some of those who don't consume spicy foods on a regular basis love it. And on the other side of the spectrum, we have people who avoid spicy foods at all costs. Regardless of where you stand on the matter, it turns out there are actually a number of benefits associated with consuming spicy foods regularly.

With this in mind, have you ever wondered what happens to your body when you eat spicy foods? Click through the following gallery to find out!

You may lose weight

Eating spicy foods not only helps you potentially lose weight, but also helps you maintain it. Spicy foods contain capsaicin, an active component of chili peppers that can help with this process.

A 2017 study found that “capsaicin plays a critical role in humans and has multiple benefits for metabolic health, especially for weight loss in obese individuals.”

You may feel less pain

In fact, topical application of a gel containing 2.5% to 8% concentration of capsaicin has been shown to provide pain relief. Research found it to be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis pain in particular, but it has also been shown to reduce neuropathic pain.

Daily ingestion may help prevent peptic ulcers

Spicy foods causing ulcers is a common misconception. In fact, the contrary is true. This is because capsaicin inhibits acid production in the stomach.

Chronic medication use and things like H. Pylori bacteria are often to blame for ulcers. “As a matter of fact, capsaicin has been considered as a medication for preventing ulcer development in people who take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs," clarifies gastroenterologist Edwin McDonald.

It may boost your immune system

For this reason, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton swears by a daily ingestion of a hot pepper. "It's certainly possible that some of the compounds found in chili peppers could be protective of health," explains food science professor John Hayes.

It may help fight cancer

While more research is needed to study capsaicin’s efficiency, a systematic review found that “the potential of combination therapy for improved anticancer properties, especially for lung and prostate cancer, has demonstrated some promising results, which indicates the therapeutic value of capsaicin.”

You might live longer

According to the study, a 14% relative risk reduction in total mortality was observed in those who consumed spicy foods between five to seven days a week, in comparison to those who ate them less than once a week.

It may reduce your sugar cravings

Swapping sugar for spice may be a simple and effective trick to control cravings. "I've had patients say that when they have chili sauce or jalapeño, they're satisfied because it feels like they've hit the spot," explains dietitian Bonnie Taub-Dix.

It may help clear your sinuses

In addition, chili peppers are rich in vitamin A, which plays a role in forming strong mucous membranes that will consequently be more effective in preventing germs from entering your body.

It may help reduce inflammation

In fact, a study found that the anti-inflammatory effects of capsaicin were comparable to diclofenac (Voltaren) in rats.

It may be beneficial for your heart

"In fact, capsaicin is currently being studied for its ability to treat circulatory problems, hardening of the arteries, and irregular heart rhythm," adds Sass.

It may change your palate

This may also have an impact on how you taste other foods. Too much spice can actually ruin how other foods will taste, temporarily rendering them tasteless. So, go easy on that hot sauce!

It may make you rush to the toilet

Though this effect can be exacerbated in people with more sensitive gastrointestinal systems. This means that colon receptors are excessively activated and it speeds up the whole process as a defense mechanism.

It may aggravate gastrointestinal conditions

Similarly, daily consumption of spicy foods can affect those who already suffer from gastrointestinal conditions. People with Crohn's disease, for instance, should avoid it.