In fact, Graham says, research suggests hot peppers protect the stomach. Hot peppers cure ulcers False. But not in human stomachs, Graham says. The hot stuff had no effect on the ulcer-causing bacteria. It appears hot peppers don't cause, cure or aggravate ulcers.
Hot peppers promote heartburn True.
Hot peppers do not cause new cases of heartburn but do worsen existing heartburn, finds Sheila Stanley, Ph.D., of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. The cayenne induced earlier and more severe heartburn, as well as more bloating and abdominal pain. Researchers concluded that peppers somehow promote a more toxic response in heartburn sufferers. Hot peppers lower cholesterol False. Popular reports to the contrary, there is no good evidence hot peppers benefit cholesterol.