Exotic fruit championed by late Dr Michael Mosley could slash cholesterol

Chilli peppers, often imported to the UK from parts of Central and South America, naturally contain a chemical called capsaicin. This is what gives the chilli its spicy kick - but it could be great for anyone wanting to take better care of their heart and cholesterol too.

: "When you eat a chilli, the capsaicin is released into your saliva and then binds on to TRPV1 receptors in your mouth and tongue. The receptors are actually there to detect the sensation of scalding heat.

"Capsaicin makes your mouth feel as if it is on fire because the capsaicin molecule happens to fit the receptors perfectly. When this happens it triggers these receptors, which send a signal to your brain, fooling it into thinking that your mouth is literally burning."

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

Experts have researched the benefits of capsaicin, with looking at how it may play a role in combating high cholesterol. Researchers were keen to discover if the signature kick of a chilli pepper helped naturally lower increased LDL (bad) cholesterol.

The overview found that eight out of nine studies researched found that capsaicin reduced LDL levels in people with metabolic syndrome. However, reviewers also found that the same number of studies indicated that capsaicin did not make any changes to HDL (good) cholesterol.

that included 22,811 Italian adults found that regular chilli pepper consumption was associated with a lower risk of death from heart disease. Some suggest that capsaicin may improve certain aspects of cardiovascular health, including blood vessel function, .

Tolerance to heat may put some people off adding this to their daily diet. However, experts do have an alternative for anyone who thinks capsaicin might help them.

Supplements are also available if you do not like the idea of munching on chilli peppers. These supplements, like the chillis, are measured on the Scoville Heat Unit scale to measure potency but, because they’re encapsulated, you shouldn't experience the same heat as when you eat hot peppers.

, this is a popular supplement that people often take to aid with weight loss goals. Losing weight is one of the major lifstyle changes recomneded by doctors when it comes to cutting down your cholesterol levels.

, enabling you to more easily lose weight and burn fat. Capsaicin works by increasing oxygen consumption and body temperature, .

Even though peppers are nutritious, most people can only handle a small portion because of their intense spicy flavour. This information should not replace any medical advice or instructions you have been given by a doctor. If you want to alter or amend anything regarding your lifestyle that may go against what you have been told to do, then speak with an expert first.