Better-quality diet has been reported to be associated with better psychological health outcomes. In contrast, a poor diet, such as increased consumption of junk foods, has been shown to increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chili peppers, whereas a vanilloid receptor known as TRPV1 is the receptor for capsaicin and is universally distributed in the sensory nerves, brain, and blood vessels. Interestingly, previous animal studies have shown that chili pepper intake may be associated with mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Zhang et al. (2022) recently investigated the relationship between spicy food consumption and psychological health. Among the 1,771 Chinese college students participated, the odds of having depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms were 34.0%, 46.5%, and 19.1%, respectively. As compared to non-spicy food consumers, the odds ratios (ORs) of depressive symptoms across spicy food consumption were 1.13 for 1–2 days/week and 1.38 for ≥3 days/week. With regard to anxiety symptoms, the ORs were 0.99 for 1–2 days/week and 1.50 for ≥3 days/week. For stress symptoms, the ORs were 0.90 for 1–2 days/week and 1.27 for ≥3 days/week. Hence, a positive association between frequently spicy food consumption and depressive and anxiety symptoms was demonstrated.

Reference:

Zhang et al. Nutrients. 2022;14(21). doi:10.3390/NU14214508