Peppers (Capsicum Annuum) Fruit Extract
Also known as: Peppers, chili pepper, bell pepper, cayenne pepper, Capsicum annuum fruit extract, Capsicum annuum
Overview
Capsicum annuum is a species of the Capsicum genus, widely cultivated for its fruits used as spices and vegetables. The fruit extract is a plant-derived supplement rich in capsaicinoids, primarily capsaicin, which is responsible for its characteristic pungency and numerous biological effects. Supplementation with Capsicum annuum fruit extract is primarily investigated for its metabolic health benefits, including its influence on lipid profiles, body weight management, and energy expenditure. It contains bioactive compounds that influence metabolism, lipid metabolism, and thermogenesis by activating specific receptors in the body. Research on this extract is of moderate maturity, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses available, providing moderate-quality evidence for some of its effects. While some outcomes show heterogeneity and modest effect sizes, the overall body of evidence suggests potential as an adjunct for metabolic health, particularly in overweight or obese individuals.
Benefits
Capsicum annuum fruit extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily related to metabolic health. A significant benefit is the reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), with meta-analyses showing a standardized mean difference (SMD) around -0.39 (95% CI: -0.72 to -0.07; p=0.02), indicating moderate-quality evidence. It also contributes to modest reductions in body weight and body mass index (BMI), particularly in overweight and obese adults, with small but statistically significant decreases reported. Furthermore, the extract has been shown to increase energy expenditure by approximately 58.56 kcal/day and enhance fat oxidation, especially in individuals with a BMI greater than 25 kg/m². These effects are more pronounced in overweight or obese adults and those with metabolic syndrome. While statistically significant, the clinical relevance of these effects may depend on an individual's baseline risk and integration with other lifestyle factors. No consistent significant effects have been observed on triglycerides, blood pressure, or glucose levels, though some studies show trends with heterogeneity. Most studies range from 4 to 12 weeks, suggesting effects are typically observed within this timeframe.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Capsicum annuum fruit extract, particularly its active compound capsaicin, involves the activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels. This activation leads to an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity, which in turn enhances thermogenesis (heat production) and fat oxidation. By influencing the TRPV1 receptor, capsaicin affects catecholamine release and metabolic rate, thereby impacting energy expenditure and lipid metabolism. The extract also influences appetite regulation, though this mechanism is less understood. Capsaicin is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, and its bioavailability can vary depending on the specific formulation of the extract.
Side effects
Capsicum annuum fruit extract is generally well tolerated at the doses used in clinical trials. The most common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, a burning sensation, or irritation, which are typically transient. Less common side effects, occurring in 1-5% of individuals, may include rare reports of flushing or a temporary increase in heart rate. Serious adverse events have not been consistently reported in clinical trials, making severe reactions rare (less than 1%). While no major drug interactions have been definitively documented, caution is advised when co-administering with medications that affect gastrointestinal mucosa or metabolism. The extract is contraindicated in individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal ulcers or severe sensitivity to spicy foods. Data on its safety in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, are limited, and therefore, caution is advised for these groups.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for Capsicum annuum fruit extract varies, with effective doses typically standardized to their capsaicin content. Clinical trials showing beneficial effects commonly use a daily capsaicin content ranging from 2 mg to 10 mg. This range is considered optimal for efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Higher doses may increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects, and clinical trials generally do not exceed 10 mg of capsaicin per day. The extract is usually administered with meals to help reduce potential gastrointestinal irritation. For consistency and predictable effects, extracts standardized for their capsaicin content are preferred. Absorption of capsaicin can be enhanced when consumed with fat-containing meals. There are no specific cofactors required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Capsicum annuum fruit extract safe for daily use?
Yes, within the studied doses (2-10 mg capsaicin daily), it is generally considered safe for daily use, with only minor and transient gastrointestinal side effects reported.
How soon can effects on weight or cholesterol be expected?
Effects on weight and cholesterol are typically observed after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, as indicated by clinical trial durations.
Does it help with blood sugar control?
Current scientific evidence does not consistently show significant effects of Capsicum annuum fruit extract on blood glucose levels.
Can it replace conventional treatments for metabolic syndrome?
No, Capsicum annuum fruit extract should not replace prescribed medical therapies for metabolic syndrome; it may serve as an adjunct to conventional treatments.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33262398/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 RCTs (total 609 adults) found that Capsicum annuum fruit extract significantly reduced LDL-C (SMD -0.39) and showed marginal weight loss over up to 12 weeks in individuals with metabolic syndrome or related disorders. It noted moderate heterogeneity and no significant effect on triglycerides or blood pressure, suggesting moderate quality evidence for lipid benefits.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7922 – This meta-analysis of four RCTs in adults with metabolic syndrome confirmed significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL-C with Capsicum annuum supplementation. Despite a limited number of included studies and some heterogeneity, it provides moderate-quality evidence supporting the lipid-lowering benefits of the extract.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2022.870154/full – This source references a meta-analysis by Zsiborás et al. (2018) which indicated that Capsicum annuum extract increased energy expenditure by approximately 58.56 kcal/day and enhanced fat oxidation in overweight/obese adults. The findings, while showing small effect sizes and population heterogeneity, support the metabolic effects of the extract and are considered moderate quality.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-77983-2 – This article, likely the full text for the Jang et al., 2020 study, details the systematic review and meta-analysis findings. It confirms the significant reduction in LDL-C and marginal weight loss, providing the detailed statistical analysis and confidence intervals for the observed effects of Capsicum annuum extract on metabolic parameters.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-capsaicin-intake-on-weight-loss-among-overweight-and-obese-subjects-a-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-randomised-controlled-trials/AF1C3A4331A35BA12CE925B0B56818B8 – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Ludy et al. (2012) focused on the effects of capsaicin intake on weight loss in overweight and obese subjects over 4–12 weeks. It reported modest but statistically significant reductions in BMI, body weight, and waist circumference, supporting the extract's role in weight management, despite variability in formulations and small effect sizes.