Could drinking cayenne pepper water be the secret to feeling great and avoiding injuries? New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers seems to think it might help. In a recent chat with the Associated Press, Rodgers, 40, mentioned that he’s been sipping on this spicy drink as part of his recovery routine. This season, Rodgers has apparently been dealing with injuries to his hamstring, knee, and ankle.
He got the tip from Thomas Morstead, the Jets punter, who shared this “fountain of youth” trick. Morstead, it’s said, has been drinking cayenne pepper water to support his health—and yes, it’s all perfectly legal.
So why cayenne pepper and water? Both ESPN and the AP suggest that this combo might come with several health perks, like pain relief and benefits for metabolism and digestion. But what does the science say about it?
While researchers haven’t specifically studied the effects of cayenne pepper water on human health, there has been some research into capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne. Capsaicin might give a slight boost to metabolism by increasing thermogenesis, which helps the body burn calories more effectively. It might also aid digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and increasing stomach acid, which could support smoother digestion for those without sensitivity issues.
Some studies suggest that cayenne could work as a mild anti-inflammatory, potentially easing joint or muscle pain. However, while capsaicin is linked to pain relief in therapeutic or high doses, it’s unclear if a drink containing cayenne can provide enough of it to make a difference. Experts like Jessica Cording and Jamie Alan aren’t convinced that drinking cayenne orally will offer significant pain relief. However, topical applications, like creams or patches with capsaicin, may help relieve pain by depleting a pain-transmitting chemical called substance P.
Cayenne also contains fiber, which promotes gut health and satiety, though the amount you get from adding it to water may not be substantial. While some tout cayenne pepper as a “fountain of youth,” experts caution that true longevity comes from a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep, and stress management—things cayenne water alone cannot provide.
Generally, drinking cayenne pepper water is probably safe unless you have gastrointestinal issues like ulcers. If you’re sensitive to peppers, it might cause discomfort shortly after drinking. It can also aggravate conditions like hemorrhoids, acid reflux, or IBS. Capsaicin can interact with certain medications, too, especially blood thinners, so it’s wise to check with a healthcare provider before making cayenne a staple.
In summary, while cayenne pepper water might have some minor benefits for metabolism and digestion, these effects are temporary. It’s not a replacement for a balanced diet or sustainable wellness strategies and definitely not the magical fountain of youth.
