Next time you are seasoning your meal with some black pepper, you just may want to give that shaker a few more generous shakes. A recent study, published in ACS’ Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, shows the main substance in black pepper, known as piperine, can stop the formation of new fat cells.1
Piperine is the substance in black pepper responsible for its pungency. The amount of piperine varies from 1-2% in long pepper, to 5-9% in the white and black peppers.2
In the recent study mentioned above, results showed that piperine reduces fat levels in the bloodstream and has other beneficial health rewards, such as antioxidant properties.3
Black pepper has already been used for centuries in Eastern medicine to combat gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, and other problems.
However, scientists still have little understanding to just how piperine works on a molecular level, and how much is actually needed to aid in fat loss. It was found that piperine somehow interferes with the activity of genes that are responsible for fat formation. Additional studies continue to be done to find out more about this amazing substance.
This is potentially good news for the fitness world. Athletes such as bodybuilders often have to deal with bland food in precontest diets.
Adding a little spice in the form of black pepper now has more benefit than just the taste aspect. Bodybuilders are not the only athletes, however, who could benefit from the potential benefits of black pepper.
Just about any athlete could benefit from a boost in metabolism since the loss or prevention of excess fat is always a plus in regards to skill sets such as endurance, quickness, etc.
Weight class oriented athletes, such as MMA fighters, boxers, and powerlifters will of course benefit the most from the effects of piperine in black pepper.
So next time you are eating, don’t be afraid to get generous with the black pepper shaker. We now know it can only be to your benefit!
