Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Get the Skinny on Cayenne

Cayenne is best known as a spice that is used to bring up the heat in spicy foods. As the popularity of herbal supplements grows, cayenne has been appearing more often in weight loss aids. Studies have shown it may help the body burn fat and reduce appetite.

The active compound in cayenne is a substance called capsaicin. It has long been know to relieve pain and itching when applied topically by disabling the pain neurotransmittors. It also promotes digestive and heart health and is high in antioxidents.

Cayenne is considered a thermogenic herb. This means it allows you to burn more calories from food, especially when eating a meal high in fat. This translates into an overall increase in metabolism which is essential to weightloss.

Use of cayenne has also been associated with a reduction in appetite. Scientists believe that it may elevate the levels of two hormones, epinephrine and norepinephrine, which make you less hungry.

Research has shown that cayenne increases blood circulation. It also elevates body temperature. These two elements combined may increase the bodies ability to burn fat.

Cayenne has been shown to be a healthy addition to anyone's diet and nutritional plan. Spice up your palate, rev up your metabolism, throw in a little appetite supressant action and cayenne might be just what you need to jump start your weight loss program.


About the Author

Dr. Lanny Schaffer is an Exercise Physiologist and the President of The International Fitness Academy. For more weight loss and fitness ideas go to http://www.aerobic-exercise-coach.com