Health benefits of hot sauce

Hot sauce is not only a great way to add some zest to your meals, but it also comes with a variety of health benefits:

1. Low in Calories: Hot sauce is very low in calories and free of carbs, fat, and protein, making it a guilt-free addition to your diet¹.
2. Contains Vitamin C: Although used in small amounts, hot sauce contains vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and acts as an antioxidant¹.
3. Capsaicin Benefits: The capsaicin in hot sauce has been linked to pain relief, weight loss, decreased inflammation, and even potential cancer prevention. However, these effects are based on studies using high doses of capsaicin, so the impact of the amounts typically found in hot sauce may be less pronounced¹.
4. Metabolism Boost: Some research suggests that capsaicin can increase metabolism and decrease appetite, which may aid in weight loss¹.
5. Blood Pressure Regulation: Capsaicin may also help maintain healthy blood pressure levels².
6. Rich in Antioxidants: Hot sauce contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. They also have anti-aging properties³.
7. Clears Congestion: The spiciness of hot sauce can clear up sinus congestion, which can be particularly helpful if you have a cold².
8. Digestive Health: There’s evidence to suggest that capsaicin may improve digestion and regulate blood sugar⁴.

It’s important to note that while hot sauce has these potential benefits, it can also be high in sodium, which should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, the capsaicin in hot sauce may cause side effects like acid reflux or stomach cramps in some individuals¹.