Thanks to a study done 13 years ago, it was proven that red pepper can increase your metabolism. This causes your body to burn energy faster and more effectively, plus it eases hunger pangs.

Adding chilli or hot spices to your food won’t cause stomach problems or irritate an ulcer as we’ve always thought. It may, in fact, protect the stomach lining as it helps your stomach produce less gastric acid. The burning sensation you experience after eating is actually due to not having built up sufficient tolerance.

When next making a pot of curry, remember that it may also have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties in the form of a pigment called Curcumin. This compound is especially useful in the fight against, and prevention of, prostate cancer.

Experiencing clogged sinuses and nasal passages? Eat some spicy food. It increases body temperature and effectively fights fever thereby alleviating flu symptoms. Hot peppers alleviate chronic bronchitis and asthma and acts as an expectorant, plus they’re a whole lot cheaper than cough mixture and tablets.

And there’s more! We all know about the winter blues, so popping a few chillies into your food will help your brain release feel-good endorphins. Experts believe that hot spices may also reduce inflammation, raise your heart rate and even help with pain relief.

So, it’s time to wipe the dust off those cookbooks and dig out the recipe for chilli con carne, a zesty Mexican salsa or even a spicy Bloody Mary – all guaranteed to keep you smiling and in great shape over winter. What’s your favourite chilli-based recipe?

And please remember that as we’re not all alike, it’s best to enjoy everything in moderation and if at all unsure, it’s always best to consult your doctor.