For many, the fiery kick of chili peppers or the warmth of hot sauce brings comfort, excitement, and flavor to mealtimes. Spicy foods have been celebrated in various cultures for centuries — from Indian curries to Mexican salsas.
But while they can make your taste buds dance, they can also make your body groan. Beyond the immediate burning sensation, regular consumption of spicy meals could come with side effects that are worth knowing.
Here’s why you might want to slow down on the spice.
Irritates the digestive tract
Spicy foods, particularly those rich in capsaicin, can irritate the lining of your stomach and intestines. This can lead to discomfort, bloating, and even diarrhea, especially in people with sensitive stomachs or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Triggers acid reflux
Capsaicin relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, which can cause stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. This often results in heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, or chronic acid reflux symptoms.
Worsens ulcers and gastritis
If you already have stomach ulcers or gastritis, spicy foods can exacerbate the pain and delay healing. The intense heat can inflame the already sensitive stomach lining, leading to more discomfort and possible complications.
Disrupts sleep patterns
Eating spicy foods close to bedtime can cause indigestion and acid reflux, both of which may interfere with your sleep. Capsaicin can also raise your body temperature slightly, making it harder to fall and stay asleep.
Causes excessive sweating
While sweating may seem harmless, eating overly spicy meals can cause uncomfortable, excessive perspiration, especially in social settings or in hot climates. This can be inconvenient and, for some, embarrassing.
May irritate skin conditions
For people with conditions like rosacea or eczema, spicy foods can trigger flare-ups by increasing body temperature and blood flow to the skin. This often results in redness, itching, or breakouts.
Potential bladder irritation
Some research suggests that spicy foods may irritate the bladder lining, potentially worsening urinary urgency and frequency, particularly in those with overactive bladder syndrome.
