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What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Extra Spicy Food?

Indulging in moderate spicy foods can offer health benefits, but excessive consumption may lead to abdominal and chest pain, headaches, violent vomiting, and burning diarrhoea.

Shivangi Rai
Before you go for that extra spicy dish, you should know the possible aftereffects that it may have. (Image Courtesy- Unsplash)
Before you go for that extra spicy dish, you should know the possible aftereffects that it may have. (Image Courtesy- Unsplash)

Indulging in the allure of spicy foods can be a delightful but potentially troublesome affair, as the aftermath may bring about various discomforts. It's essential to be cognizant of the possible consequences before succumbing to the temptation of that extra-spicy dish.

Abdominal Pain

The difficulty in digesting spicy foods stems from their tendency to heat up the digestive system, making them challenging to break down. Consequently, some individuals experience stomach pain after consuming such meals.

Chest Pain

Heartburn or acidity resulting from the consumption of excessively spicy foods can lead to chest pain. The irritants in these dishes can disrupt the digestive system, causing discomfort and potentially triggering chest pain.

Headache

The consumption of highly spicy foods may induce headaches, albeit of a temporary nature. This discomfort, often referred to as a thunderclap headache, can be an unwelcome consequence of the intense flavours.

Violent Vomiting

Certain elements in spicy foods, such as capsaicin, can agitate the digestive system by stimulating receptors in the mouth. This irritation may lead to vomiting, particularly in individuals unaccustomed to the piquancy.

Burning Diarrhoea

Improper digestion of spicy foods can result in diarrhoea or loose stools. The challenges in breaking down these intense flavours can manifest in digestive distress, causing discomfort and inconvenience.

Are There Any Benefits?

Despite the potential side effects associated with consuming excessive amounts of spicy foods, moderate intake can offer several health benefits. These include the promotion of heart health, weight management, and a potential reduction in the risk of certain cancers. It is crucial to strike a balance, savouring the flavours without succumbing to the pitfalls of overindulgence in spiciness.

While the allure of spicy foods is undeniable, awareness of potential consequences is key. Moderation is advised to reap the benefits without falling prey to the discomforts that may follow an indulgence in excessively spicy delights.

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