Spicy foods may boost longevity and heart health, but the science isn’t definitive

The Washington Post’s Well+Being column notes that capsaicin in spicy foods has a scientific basis for potential benefits, including longer life and reduced risk of cancer and heart/lung diseases, likely via effects on heart health and metabolism. However, the evidence isn’t conclusive, and some studies point to potential risks such as stomach cancer; overall, the Mediterranean-style diet remains the most consistently beneficial pattern.