Get caliente with cayenne

Cayenne pepper gets its heat from capsaicin, the same compound that makes chili peppers spicy. Research suggests capsaicin may give metabolism a small, temporary nudge and help some people feel satisfied sooner, though it's no magic trick. Capsaicin is also used in creams for sore muscles, and the peppers provide vitamin A from beta-carotene.

Ways to add a little heat:

• A pinch in soups, chili, eggs or roasted veggies
• A dash in hot cocoa or over dark chocolate
• A sprinkle in warm lemon water with a little honey

Start small, since a little goes a long way, and skip it if spicy foods trigger reflux for you. Try this: dust roasted sweet potatoes with cayenne, smoked paprika and sea salt tonight.