Hot pepper does not actually raise the temperature in the mouth. It does something more sophisticated: It convinces the nervous system that something hot is occurring. Its active ingredient, capsaicin, binds to receptors that detect heat and pain. The brain receives a burn message, the body responds with sweat, tears, a runny nose, and a rapid pulse, and the person in front of the plate tries to prove they can handle it.
In many cultures, spicy food is a natural and delicious part of the meal. Pepper in moderation can add flavor, reduce the need for salt, and upgrade a meal. The problem begins when spicy food becomes a challenge. In recent years, videos have spread on social networks in which young people eat particularly hot peppers, concentrated powders, or snacks with a high capsaicin concentration. The body does not always treat this as a joke.
How spicy food can affect the body
A high amount of capsaicin can irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. The result can be strong burning, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In people with reflux, gastritis, a peptic ulcer, or irritable bowel syndrome, even a relatively small amount could worsen symptoms. Spicy food does not necessarily create ulcers, but it can certainly cause pain to those who are already sensitive.
There are also responses that appear very dramatic: Coughing, a feeling of choking, tears, chest pressure, and anxiety. Sometimes this is a strong irritation and a body reaction to pain, but a person suffering from real shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual weakness needs to be examined. Not every event after spicy food is "just spicy."
In rare cases, unusual phenomena have been described after extreme consumption of particularly hot peppers, such as severe headaches or vascular reactions. These are not ordinary scenarios after spicy shakshuka or schug in a sandwich, but rather after extreme exposures. Therefore, one must distinguish between seasoned food and an unnecessary contest in front of a camera.
Children and teenagers are particularly sensitive to social pressure surrounding spicy challenges. They might eat an amount that is not suitable for them just to avoid appearing weak. Parents and teachers need to address such challenges as a real risk, not just nonsense. An especially hot pepper or concentrated spicy powder is not child's play.
What do you do when your mouth is burning?
Water usually does not help much, because capsaicin is fat-soluble and not water-soluble. Dairy products like yogurt or milk can relieve those who are allowed to consume them, because protein and fat help disperse the substance. Bread, rice, or starchy food can also reduce the sensation. Alcohol is not a recommended solution.
It is important to avoid touching your eyes after cutting a hot pepper. Capsaicin on the fingers can cause severe burning in the eye or sensitive skin. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly after cutting, and to use gloves with particularly hot peppers. Touching the facial area or sensitive body parts can also cause significant pain.
Spicy food in moderation is not an enemy. For many people, it is part of culinary enjoyment and family cuisine. But as with any active substance, the dosage changes the story. Anyone suffering from severe reflux, active bowel diseases, or recurring abdominal pain should check whether spicy food worsens their condition.
Hot pepper reminds us that the line between flavor and pain can be very thin. When you eat to enjoy, the body manages. When you eat to beat the internet, the body might be the one to lose.
Dr. Itay Gal is a specialist in pediatrics, sports and aviation medicine, and the medical commentator for Maariv. For additional articles on various medical and technology topics, click here