Grownups Guide to Spicy Food Myths

Many people can’t resist the heat of a savory meal packed with fresh peppers and spicy sauces. All deliciousness aside, there are some common misunderstandings and myths floating around about the effects of spicy foods. Some say your metabolism will speed up, while others say you’ll fry your tastebuds. Let’s take a look at some of these spicy food myths to help you separate fact from fiction.

Do Spicy Foods Give You Ulcers?

A relatively common rumor is that eating too much spice can give you a stomach ulcer. But the gut houses a lot of bacteria, both healthy and unhealthy. It’s the body’s job to release the toxins not meant for us. There is a specific unhealthy gut bacteria known to contribute to stomach ulcers, but it isn’t the chemical in spicy foods. Of course, it is worth noting that what you eat plays a significant role in your gut lining and health and eating fresh vegetables improves your microbiome.

Are Spicy Foods Metabolic Boosters?

The thought of eating something savory and spicy and speeding up your metabolism sounds like a dream. Unfortunately, that’s because it is. While all pepper compounds contain a chemical known as capsaicin, which can positively affect the body’s chemical balance, it’s false that eating Mexico’s favorite spicy enchiladas or these yummy Sugar-Free Candied Jalapenos will speed up your metabolism and help you lose weight.

Does Eating Spicy Foods Hurt Your Tastebuds?

Another common misunderstanding is that spicy foods will kill your tastebuds. Due to the heat you feel when you’re eating something with high heat levels, you may feel as if the food is burning your tongue. Unless the physical temperature of your food is very high, your tastebuds are safe. So enjoy this Mexican Chicken Soup and if you burn your mouth, know that the human tongue will regenerates about every 14 days.

Some Of My Favorite Spicy Recipes:

• Cape Malay Chicken Curry
• Asian Pork Meatloaf with Spicy Glaze
• Sugar-Free Candied Jalapenos
• Thai Larb Spicy Pork Salad
• Honey Harissa Chicken & Vegetables
• Mexican Carrot Salad

Will Eating Spicy Foods Induce Labor?

For those expecting mamas desperately seeking ways to induce labor naturally, unfortunately, eating spicy foods will not help. Instead, they may give you additional heartburn and reflux that can become uncomfortable. Spicy foods also won’t harm your baby, so enjoy the cravings and carry some antacids just in case.

Hopefully, I helped debunked some myths to help give you the peace to enjoy the flavors and foods you love. Whether it’s a dash of your favorite hot sauce or garden-fresh hot pepper salsa, the experience of enjoying something spicy can heat up your meals and your life!

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