Hypoglycemic and thermogenic effects are attributed to the capsaicinoid compounds (capsaicin). The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of the consumption of 5g of chili pepper on thermogenesis and the glycemic response. In a pretest-post-test quasi-experimental study, the energy expenditure (EE) of 15 healthy men was evaluated by using indirect calorimetry at rest and with the consumption of 5g of Capsicum annum. In addition, the glycemic response after an oral glucose load was evaluated. After the consumption of C. annum, there was a significant increase in the EE of all the participants during the first few seconds postchili consumption. In sedentary participants, the consumption of chili pepper caused a significant decrease of blood glucose levels. The consumption of chili pepper has a potential immediate thermogenic effect during the first few seconds and, in sedentary people, it has a potential hypoglycemic effect.
A single oral glucose load decreases arterial plasma [K
+
] during exercise and recovery
