Hot stuff: Eight spicy pasta sauces put to the test

It's cold outside and a little internal warming is just what we need. Chilli peppers can do more than just make us feel hot, they can convert the energy from their chemical capsaicin into heat, through a process known as thermogenesis, which also happens with ginger. A word to the wise: a large amount may be needed to make a notable difference.

Chillis are interesting in what they are capable of doing. There is research on trial drugs using capsaicin for weight loss. Other research reveals how pain caused by chillis when in the mouth can cause a reaction resulting in the release of endorphins, our body’s natural painkillers which also make us feel happy (as chocolate and grapes do). Ongoing research suggests capsaicin may also be good for healthy gut bacteria.