Are you more sensitive to spicy food than others?

Aira on November 8, 2022


Why are some people more sensitive to spicy food than others?

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Scientists have known for a long time that chili peppers’ heat stems from a chemical called capsaicin.

The capsaicin receptor (TRPV1) in the mouth regulates the amount of pain that comes with a spicy meal.

People’s sensitivity to spicy food varies, which helps to explain why some individuals can’t stand spicy dishes while others enjoy them.

Food Sensitivity & DNA

As you probably know, our body responds to foods differently depending on our DNA. 

You may be more sensitive to bitter foods, for example, and that can affect your food preferences. 

You may also be more sensitive to caffeine as compared to others. In fact, some people may experience anxiety, headaches, stomach pains, or high blood pressure when they consume coffee.

Here are some other foods that your body may respond to differently depending on your DNA:

  1. Carbohydrates
  2. Saturated fats
  3. Lactose
  4. Gluten
  5. And more!

To learn more about your sensitivity to certain foods and your potential response to certain nutrients, please click here. 

Here are the top 3 health benefits of eating spicy food:

1.  Spicy meals may help with longevity.

According to a 2015 study, eating spicy food six or seven days a week — even once a day — reduced mortality rates by 14%.

 

2. Spicy foods increase metabolism.

Several studies have found that spices like cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and peppers might increase your metabolic resting rate while decreasing your appetite. 

 

3. Spices are anti-inflammatory.

Curcumin, a turmeric component, may help reduce inflammation in the body.

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and garlic have been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for ages to treat a variety of ailments, including arthritis, autoimmune disorders, migraines, and nausea.

Already taken a DNA test? Upload your DNA now and get personalized insights and actionable recommendations on diet and health. 

Here are the top 4 signs that spicy foods may not good for you:

 

You require a mint.

Bad breath can be caused by a variety of foods, including onions and garlic, but spicy foods can also be a culprit, due to the digestive issues that these dishes can produce.

You’re having heartburn.

Spicy meals such as hot peppers, spicy curries, and other spicy foods cause the stomach’s gastric fluids to reflux into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Insomnia

Because spicy or peppery foods are known to induce heartburn, it can worsen the condition when you’re attempting to sleep. Lying down enables the acids in your stomach to run back up into your esophagus and burn the lining. As a result of the discomfort caused by heartburn, falling asleep might be difficult.

You’re having acne.

You know how much it can burn if you accidentally touch your eye after eating spicy food. Spicy ingredients can also trigger skin irritation and flare-ups in people who already have skin problems.Y

 

Want to discover how DNA can help you optimize your diet? Click here to learn more.