**1. Expectations for Capsaicin and Metabolism**
There are studies suggesting that ‘capsaicin,’ the compound that gives chili peppers their spiciness, can temporarily boost metabolism and help with body fat reduction. This can easily lead to the expectation that eating spicy food will also directly help with blood sugar management.
**2. Realistic Effects and Cautions**
– **Minimal Effect on Blood Sugar Control:** The effect of capsaicin on metabolism is very temporary and minimal, having almost no significant effect on regulating blood sugar levels. To date, there is no clear medical evidence that ‘consuming chili powder lowers blood sugar in people with diabetes.’
– **The Danger of Spicy and Salty Foods:** The real problem is that chili powder is primarily used in spicy and salty seasonings. Korean dishes that contain a lot of chili powder, such as stews, stir-fries, and braises, are mostly high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake raises blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications of diabetes.
– **Appetite Stimulation:** Spiciness can stimulate the appetite, making it easy to overeat, which can ultimately be more harmful to blood sugar management.
**3. Using Spices Healthily**
Chili powder is a good spice rich in Vitamin C. However, it should not be considered a ‘treatment’ for blood sugar control. It is important to use it in small amounts to add flavor to food, while being careful not to make the overall dish too salty.
Summary: The idea that the capsaicin in chili powder directly controls blood sugar is a myth with insufficient scientific evidence. Instead, one should be more cautious about overeating or excessive sodium intake resulting from spicy and salty seasonings.
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