Eating Chili Peppers Linked to Longer Life

Large observational studies link regular chili pepper or spicy food intake with modestly lower overall mortality.

The biggest reported reductions were seen for cardiovascular deaths and, in some studies, cancer deaths.

Researchers think capsaicin and related pathways may play a role, but the evidence shows association, not causation.

The findings span studies in the U.S., China, Italy, and Iran and may inform future nutrition research.