#Myth: Spices Cause Ulcers

 
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Are spices one of those foods that you simply just cannot live without? Or on the other hand, do you rarely ever even use them in cooking? In light of international pumpkin spice season, let’s talk spices and…. ulcers?

Here are a few things you should know.

1. Heartburn vs ulcers

Ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach or the intestines normally caused by irritation or inflammation from large amounts of acid in the stomach. A lot of people report having ulcer-like symptoms after eaten spicy foods, which include bloating, heartburn and nausea.

However, this doesn’t always mean that you have an ulcer. In fact, these symptoms are similar to those of other health problems, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

While spices do tend to induce GERD symptoms, spicy food have not been shown to cause ulcers. In some cases however, a little spice can potentially worsen the pain of ulcers, which may be a large contributor to this urban myth.

So if you don’t have GERD and don’t already have ulcers, what you’re feeling after eating spicy food is likely just heartburn!

2. Spices can help prevent ulcers

Some spices, like ginger, are actually thought to be effective in the prevention of certain types of ulcers. Ginger is also known to help relieve heartburn and other GERD symptoms. Interestingly enough, capsaicin, an active component in chili peppers, is known toprevent and even help treat gastric ulcers!

How’s that for a hot take?

So if you’re ever feeling pain in your stomach after eating spicy food, just remember:

  1. Talk to your doctor — If you’re concerned about ulcers or GERD, it’s always a good idea to bring it up with your healthcare provider.

  2. Cut down on the spice — If your symptoms are unbearable, maybe it’s time to cut down on the Cholula!

  3. It’s probably just heartburn — Stomach discomfort after eating spicy food is completely normal. Try drinking milk to help break down the capsaicin in your stomach.

Got a favourite spice combo?

Source(s):

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Laura NguyenComment