Our Indian food scene seems incomplete without a spicy kick. Imagine the comforting warmth of a bowl of chicken curry with a little chilli or a well-made biryani mixed with spices. Spices don’t just add flavor; They evoke emotions and nostalgia. From the smoky, spicy flavor of Chettinad Chicken to the tangy flavor of Bhoot Jolokia Chutney – our love for spicy food is undeniable. But beyond its taste and thrill, have you ever wondered about the best time to enjoy these hot dishes? Whether you like a hot, spicy taste or a mild taste of heat, knowing the right time and situation to consume it can make a big difference. Let’s see how spicy food affects your body.
Also read: Do you like spicy food? Try These 7 Spicy Chicken Curries for a Delicious Meal
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Is spicy food healthy?
Good news for spice lovers: Spicy food is not only delicious but also packed with many health benefits:
1. Increases immunity
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) highlights that green and red peppers are rich in vitamins such as vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and protects against common diseases.
2. Aids in weight loss
Do you want to increase your metabolism and burn fat faster? Nutritionist Anshul Jaibharat says spicy food can help, as it increases satiety and curbs overeating. So, enjoy your spicy food guilt-free!
3. Reduces body pain
Did you know spicy foods can reduce pain? Capsaicin reduces neurotransmitters that send pain signals to the brain.
4. Good for the heart
While spicy food can cause heartburn, it also promotes heart health. Capsaicin lowers bad cholesterol, reduces inflammation.
5. Boosts mood
Have you ever felt happier after eating spicy food? This is because it increases serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone, which helps deal with stress and depression.
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What is the best time to eat spicy food?
Now that we’ve discussed its benefits, let’s talk about timing. Although you may think that you can eat spicy food whenever you want, it actually depends on the condition of your body. Ayurvedic health coach Dimple Jangra explains that if you have a kapha imbalance (such as a cold, cough, sinus problems, allergies, obesity or a sluggish metabolism), spicy foods can be beneficial. Capsaicin increases acid production in the stomach, increases body temperature, and thins mucus, which helps reduce these symptoms.
Who should avoid spicy food?
You might assume that people who don’t have these problems can safely enjoy spicy foods, but that’s not always true. If you have acidity, reflux, GERD, heartburn or pitta imbalance, Jangda recommends avoiding spicy foods. The intensity of spices can aggravate these conditions, increasing discomfort and worsening symptoms.
Can spicy food affect sleep at night?
Yes! Spicy food can affect your sleep. Ayurvedic expert Ashutosh Gautam says eating spicy food at dinner is not inherently bad, but it is important to allow enough time between dinner and bedtime. Why? Spicy food can cause gastric upset, indigestion and restlessness, which can disrupt your sleep. So, don’t go to bed immediately after eating hot ramen noodles!
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Also read: 4 effective ways to cool your mouth after eating spicy food
What is your favorite spicy food? Let us know in the comments below!
