Have you ever eaten something that didn’t agree with you and felt the urgent need to vomit? Or maybe you suspect you’ve ingested something harmful and want to quickly expel it from your body. While making yourself throw up should only be done as a last resort and under medical guidance, there are some natural techniques that can help induce vomiting when necessary. This article will discuss 16 natural ways to make yourself vomit safely.
However, Before we dive into the methods, it’s crucial to understand that self-induced vomiting can be dangerous if done improperly or too frequently. It can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, tooth decay, and even tears in the esophagus. You should always consult with a medical professional first, especially if you suspect poisoning or have an underlying health condition…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
how to Make Yourself Vomit
When Is It Safe to Make Yourself Throw Up?
Inducing vomiting should only be done in certain situations, such as:
Accidental ingestion of a toxic substance or drug overdose (under medical supervision)
Severe nausea or stomach pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments
Food poisoning or bacterial infection
Never induce vomiting if you have swallowed corrosive chemicals, sharp objects, or petroleum products. These substances can cause more damage coming back up. Always contact poison control or seek emergency medical care in cases of poisoning.
16 Natural Ways to Make Yourself Vomit
1. Use Your Finger
The most common method to induce vomiting is using your finger. Wash your hands thoroughly, then place your index finger at the back of your tongue and press down until you gag. The gag reflex will cause you to vomit. Be careful not to scratch your throat or cause injury.
Tips for using your finger to induce vomiting:
Trim your nails short to avoid scratching your throat
Remove any rings or jewelry that could get caught
Kneel in front of a toilet or sink in case of splashback
Breathe deeply and relax your throat muscles
Press down firmly but gently at the back of your tongue
Repeat until you vomit, but don’t force it if nothing comes up after a few tries
2. Drink Warm Salt Water
Dissolve 1-2 teaspoons of salt in a glass of warm water and drink it quickly. The high sodium content will upset your stomach and make you throw up. However, don’t use this method too often as excess salt intake can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
How salt water induces vomiting:
Salt is an emetic substance that irritates the stomach lining
When consumed in high concentrations, it disrupts the body’s electrolyte balance
This triggers the vomiting center in the brain to expel the excess salt
The body also pulls water into the intestines to dilute the salt, leading to bloating and nausea
3. Gargle With Warm Salt Water
If drinking salt water is too unpleasant, try gargling with it instead. The gargling action will stimulate your gag reflex and induce vomiting. Gargle intensely for about 10 minutes or until you feel the urge to vomit.
Benefits of gargling with salt water:
Less salt is ingested compared to drinking the solution
Gargling stimulates the gag reflex more directly
Saltwater can help soothe a sore throat after vomiting
Gargling also loosens mucus and flushes out bacteria
4. Consume Emetic Herbs
Certain herbs like yarrow, lobelia, and mustard have natural emetic properties that can make you vomit. Steep 1 teaspoon of the dried herb in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes, strain, and drink the tea. These herbs can cause strong reactions, so start with a small amount.
How emetic herbs work:
Yarrow contains thujone, a compound that irritates the stomach lining
Lobelia has lobeline, which stimulates the vomiting center in the brain
Mustard seeds contain an oil that induces nausea and vomiting
These herbs also have a strong, unpleasant taste that can trigger the gag reflex
Herb
Emetic Compound
Dosage
Yarrow
Thujone
1 tsp dried herb per cup
Lobelia
Lobeline
1/2 tsp dried herb per cup
Mustard
Allyl isothiocyanate
1 tbsp seeds per cup
5. Drink Coca-Cola and Baking Soda
Mix a can of Coca-Cola with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and drink it quickly. The carbonation and sodium bicarbonate will create excess gas and bloating, making you feel nauseated and ready to vomit. This remedy works best on an empty stomach.
The science behind Coca-Cola and baking soda:
Coca-Cola is carbonated and acidic, which can upset the stomach
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a base that reacts with stomach acid
When mixed, they create carbon dioxide gas and cause bloating
The gas puts pressure on the stomach and triggers the vomiting reflex
The high sugar content in Coca-Cola can also contribute to nausea
Baking Soda for Heartburn
6. Spin Around in Circles
Spinning around rapidly can induce motion sickness and make you dizzy and queasy. Spin for about 1-2 minutes or until you feel sick, then stop and wait for the vomiting to occur. Make sure you’re in a safe, open area in case you fall.
Why spinning makes you vomit:
Spinning disrupts the vestibular system in the inner ear
This system controls balance and spatial orientation
Conflicting signals between the eyes and inner ear can trigger motion sickness
Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and eventually vomiting
Some people are more prone to motion sickness than others
7. Watch Someone Else Vomit
Seeing, hearing, or smelling someone else throwing up can trigger your own gag reflex and make you vomit. This is known as “sympathetic vomiting” and is a psychological response. You can watch videos of people vomiting or imagine a graphic scene to induce the sensation.
The psychology of sympathetic vomiting:
Seeing someone vomit activates the mirror neurons in your brain
These neurons fire when you perform an action or see someone else doing it
They create an empathetic response and make you feel like you’re experiencing the same thing
Vomiting is a particularly contagious behavior due to its intense sight, sound, and smell
Even thinking or talking about vomit can be enough to trigger nausea in some people
8. Think of Disgusting Things
Similar to watching someone vomit, thinking about gross, disgusting things can make you feel sick to your stomach. Imagine the taste, smell, and texture of something revolting, like spoiled food or bodily fluids. The mental imagery can be enough to make you gag and vomit.
Examples of disgusting things to think about:
Rotten, maggot-infested meat
Sour milk and chunky, moldy cheese
Sewage and overflowing toilets
Pus, blood, and open wounds
Vomit, diarrhea, and other bodily fluids
The more vividly you imagine the disgusting scene, the more likely it will trigger your gag reflex. However, some people may be more sensitive to certain triggers than others.
9. Eat Spoiled Food
Consuming expired, moldy, or rotten food is a surefire way to make yourself sick and vomit. However, this method is dangerous and can lead to serious food poisoning. Only use this as an absolute last resort and be prepared to seek medical attention if needed.
Risks of eating spoiled food:
Bacterial growth and toxin production
Gastrointestinal inflammation and ulcers
Dehydration from excessive vomiting and diarrhea
Organ damage in severe cases
Weakened immune system and malnutrition
If you suspect you have food poisoning, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately. Symptoms usually resolve within a few days with rest and hydration, but some cases may require hospitalization.
10. Take Ipecac Syrup
Ipecac syrup is an over-the-counter medication that induces vomiting. It works by irritating the stomach lining and triggering the vomiting reflex. However, ipecac is no longer recommended for poisoning treatment and can be harmful if used incorrectly. Only take it under the guidance of a medical professional.
Risks of ipecac syrup:
Excessive vomiting and diarrhea leading to dehydration
Aspiration of vomit into the lungs
Esophageal and gastrointestinal damage
Interference with other oral medications
Accidental overdose in children
Ipecac should never be used to treat poisoning at home. If someone has ingested a toxic substance, call 911 or poison control right away. Inducing vomiting can make some types of poisoning worse. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
11. Drink Mustard Solution
Mix 1 tablespoon of mustard powder or prepared mustard with a glass of warm water and drink it quickly. Mustard contains natural emetic compounds that will make you feel nauseated and vomit. The taste is quite strong and unpleasant.
Active ingredients in mustard:
Allyl isothiocyanate (mustard oil)
Myrosin (an enzyme)
Sinigrin (a glucosinolate)
When mixed with water, the myrosin enzyme breaks down sinigrin into allyl isothiocyanate, the compound responsible for mustard’s pungent smell and emetic effects. Mustard can also cause a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and stomach.
12. Consume Raw Egg Whites
Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin that can bind to biotin (vitamin B7) and prevent its absorption. Biotin deficiency can cause nausea and vomiting.
Drink 2-3 raw egg whites on an empty stomach to induce vomiting. However, there is a risk of salmonella poisoning from raw eggs.
Symptoms of biotin deficiency:
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Fatigue and muscle pain
Dry, scaly skin
Hair loss and brittle nails
Depression and mood changes
Avidin’s ability to bind biotin is neutralized by cooking, so only raw egg whites will have this effect. Biotin deficiency is rare and usually only occurs with long-term egg white consumption. Salmonella infection is a more common risk.
13. Try Acupressure
Acupressure is an alternative therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve symptoms. The pressure point for nausea and vomiting is located on the inner wrist, about two finger-widths down from the wrist crease. Press firmly on this point for 2-3 minutes to stimulate vomiting.
How to find the P6 pressure point:
Hold your hand with your palm facing up.
Align your first 3 fingers with the wrist crease below your palm.
Place your thumb where your index finger is.
The P6 point is located between the two tendons, about two finger widths below your thumb.
Acupressure is generally safe, but it may cause bruising or soreness at the pressure point. It should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment in cases of severe nausea or vomiting.
14. Consume Ginger in Large Quantities
While ginger is typically known for its anti-nausea properties, consuming it in large amounts can actually induce vomiting. Grate about 2-3 tablespoons of fresh ginger root and steep it in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
Drink this strong ginger tea quickly. The intense concentration of gingerols and shogaols can irritate the stomach lining and trigger the vomiting reflex. Be aware that this method may cause a burning sensation in the throat and stomach.
Recipe:
2-3 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root
1 cup hot water
Steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink quickly
15. Use Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil, when consumed in large quantities, can overstimulate the digestive system and lead to nausea and vomiting.
Mix 3-4 drops of food-grade peppermint essential oil in a glass of warm water and drink it rapidly. The strong menthol flavor and concentration can upset your stomach and induce vomiting.
However, be cautious as peppermint oil is potent and can cause side effects like heartburn or allergic reactions in some people.
Warning: Never consume essential oils undiluted. Always mix with water or carrier oil.
16. Try the Bullfrog Technique
This method involves a specific breathing technique to trigger the gag reflex. Sit comfortably and take a deep breath, filling your lungs completely.
Then, without exhaling, use your stomach muscles to push air up into your throat, creating a “croaking” sound like a bullfrog.
Repeat this process several times until you feel the urge to vomit. This technique puts pressure on your diaphragm and stomach, potentially inducing nausea and vomiting. It may take some practice to master the technique effectively.
How to Make Yourself Throw Up
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While these methods can be effective in inducing vomiting, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and side effects:
Dehydration: Vomiting leads to loss of fluids and electrolytes, which can cause dehydration if not properly managed.
Tooth Damage: Stomach acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and decay.
Esophageal Tears: Forceful vomiting can cause small tears in the esophagus, a condition known as Mallory-Weiss syndrome.
Aspiration: There’s a risk of inhaling vomit into the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia or other respiratory issues.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Frequent vomiting can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance, potentially leading to serious health issues.
Psychological Impact: Regularly inducing vomiting can contribute to the development or worsening of eating disorders.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Vomiting usually resolves on its own within 24 hours. However, see a doctor if you experience:
Vomiting that lasts longer than 2 days
Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine, rapid heartbeat)
Blood or what looks like coffee grounds in the vomit
Severe abdominal pain or headache
High fever over 101°F
Inability to keep fluids down
In conclusion
inducing vomiting is a quick way to get rid of nausea and clear out your system. However, it should be done cautiously and only when necessary.
To minimize the risks, follow these precautions when making yourself vomit:
Stay hydrated by drinking clear liquids like water, broth, and electrolyte solutions
Don’t brush your teeth immediately after vomiting as it can damage the enamel
Rinse your mouth with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing
Avoid acidic, spicy, and hard foods that can irritate your throat
Don’t induce vomiting if you have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
Don’t make it a habit – frequent vomiting can lead to serious health problems
Title: The Benefits of Washing Your Face with Salt Water: A Natural Skincare Approach
Subtitle: Experts Highlight Potential Acne Treatment and Skin Health Benefits
The age-old practice of washing one’s face with salt water has been a subject of debate among skincare enthusiasts. While some swear by its effectiveness, others remain skeptical. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that using salt water as part of a daily skincare routine may offer a plethora of benefits, including acne treatment, relief from skin problems, and a fresh, glowing complexion…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
Acne Treatment:
Acne, a common skin woe that affects people of all ages, can be an emotionally distressing condition. The antibacterial properties of salt water are believed to be the key to its potential in acne treatment. By drawing out bacteria from the skin and tightening pores, salt water may help reduce the appearance of acne and prevent future breakouts. Additionally, the ability of salt water to remove excess oil and pollutants from the skin contributes to clearer-looking skin over time.
Treatment for Skin Problems:
Those grappling with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dryness may find relief through regular salt water washes. Sea salt, in particular, is a rich source of essential minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, known for their healing properties. These minerals can help soothe irritated skin, promote skin barrier repair, and aid in the removal of toxins, leading to potential improvements in various skin conditions.
Face Cleanser:.
For individuals seeking an all-natural and cost-effective face cleanser, salt water might be the answer. Using a salt water solution as a facial spray after washing one’s face and before applying makeup can help control oil production, minimize pore size, and leave the skin feeling fresh throughout the day. This simple step can be easily incorporated into daily skincare routines.
Exfoliating Scrub:
When used cautiously and on appropriate skin types, salt water can act as an exfoliating scrub, promoting the shedding of dead skin cells and encouraging the growth of new, softer, and smoother skin. It’s important to note that individuals with sensitive skin should exercise caution or opt for gentler exfoliation methods to avoid potential irritation.
To make a salt water solution at home, mix two tablespoons of non-iodized salt with four cups of distilled or hot water (boiled for at least 20 minutes). Ensuring proper hygiene, wash your hands, sterilize the container, and use a mixing tool to stir the salt well in the water. Allow the solution to cool before application.
Prepare a natural mixture by mixing one teaspoon of sea salt with four cups of warm water in a small spray bottle. Dissolve the salt completely and lightly spray the solution on freshly washed skin, avoiding the eye area, twice a day.
Exfoliating Scrub:
Create a revitalizing exfoliating scrub by mixing half a cup of olive oil or melted coconut oil with a quarter cup of salt in a bowl. Add 10 drops of your preferred essential oil for a pleasant fragrance. Apply the scrub in gentle circular motions using a washcloth, loofah, or your hands while in the shower.
Experts emphasize that individual experiences may vary, and it’s essential to exercise caution and conduct a patch test before incorporating any new skincare practices. As always, consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional is advisable to determine if salt water-based skincare is suitable for one’s specific skin type and condition.
In conclusion, the use of salt water in skincare holds promise in addressing various skin concerns, from acne treatment to exfoliation. Embracing this natural approach might lead to healthier, more radiant skin, but an informed decision, backed by expert advice, is crucial for optimal results.
(Note: This article provides information on using salt water for skincare purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Readers are advised to seek professional guidance for their specific skincare needs.)
Specialists believe an urge to chew ice or eat something salty all the time may be a symptom of a deeper issue or a lack of minerals and vitamins. That’s why paying attention to any new emerging behaviours is always a good idea, particularly if they emerge unexpectedly from nowhere.
1. A scratching, ravenous feeling in the legs
If you have odd sensations like walking, creeping or the desire to shift in your legs and feet, this could be a sign of restless syndrome in your legs. This condition is long-term and you still experience the nighttime pain as you try to get some rest…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>
Don’t neglect or undervalue skin issues. If the skin gets sticky and itchy it may be a symptom of a bunch of internal issues such as a hormonal imbalance, eczema, or allergies. When this condition continues or if it appears to get worse you should get some blood tests done.
3. A variation in handwriting, a lack of smell, and powerful dreams
Everyone has certainly heard of Parkinson’s disease but not as many of us are conscious of the effects. Tremors, slow motion, disturbed sleep hallucinations, and changes in speech and writing may be signs of the disease, doctors say.
Rage breakouts can not always result from your temperament. It may be related to depression, some researchers claim. Depression is not only about feeling a lack of motivation or experiencing depression, they say — you may even have violent behaviour.
The condition is called hypersomnia and can come from events that show it’s not just tiredness say doctors. Many autoimmune disorders will make you feel like you want to fall asleep just about anywhere. This effect can also be triggered by consuming alcoholic drinks before bedtime
When there is a white or grey ring around the cornea of the eyes, doctors have found it can be a sign of elevated cholesterol for people under the age of 45. The ring itself is harmless and just has a visual influence. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
It’s okay to like salty food but it’s time to ask yourself why when you can’t control it anymore and salty food is the only thing you want. Based on medical sources, this can indicate an iron deficiency, anaemia, fatigue or premenstrual syndrome.
Sometimes people equate that with depression because it seems like you’re so exhausted and fed up with all that you can’t remember stuff. Physicians advise that it is best not to neglect such a disorder because this may mean a thyroid hormone deficiency in the body. You will gain weight and feel cold too.
It is not natural to always feel thirsty, say experts. There are several instances where the food you consume can be related, so check to see if you are consuming too many spicy or salty foods. The ceaseless hunger may also be a symptom of diabetes or pregnancy.
A compulsion to crunch ice can be clarified quickly and may be more than just a habit. The explanation for this unusual urge may be an iron deficiency or anaemia, some research has shown. You may want to take a few blood tests to check whether you need to start taking supplements.
Spicy food can transform any meal into a sensory experience — pain, pleasure, even breaking a sweat can take flavors to the next level. While some like it hot, dialing up the heat may ruin a meal for others. Spicy food is divisive, and everyone’s tolerance is different.
Whether you love the tingling burn of a spicy meal or you can’t stand the scorch, you may be wondering: Does spicy food have health benefits? Or are fiery foods risky or even dangerous?
What gives spicy food that “hot” burning sensation is a chemical compound called capsaicin, Dr. Rabia de Latour, a board-certified gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health, tells TODAY.com. Capsaicin is a main component of chili peppers, such as cayenne, serrano and habanero.
Different peppers contain different concentrations of capsaicin, which is measured using the Scoville scale, Dr. Paul Terry, professor of epidemiology at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, tells TODAY.com. The spicier a pepper or food is, the higher it’s rated on the Scoville scale, which is recorded in Scoville heat units (SHU).
A typical jalapeño pepper, for example, is around 5,000 SHUs, whereas a Carolina Reaper pepper can be over 1.5 million SHUs.
What does spicy food do to the body?
When you eat spicy food, the capsaicin binds to receptors in the mouth and on the tongue called TRPV1, says Terry. “These send signals of pain to the brain,” he adds. Technically, spiciness is just a painful sensation, not a flavor or taste.
These receptors also sense temperature and heat, so capsaicin tricks the body into thinking its overheating, per the Cleveland Clinic. There may be a slight increase in body temperature and heart rate.
As a result, the body may try to cool itself down, which is why you can become flushed or start sweating while eating spicy food, the experts note. Capsaicin can also irritate the membranes lining the nose, which may cause a runny nose or watery eyes.
Once ingested, the capsaicin enters the digestive tract and can irritate the esophagus or stomach. This may cause more pain or gastrointestinal upset, says de Latour. In the gut, capsaicin can accelerate digestion.
“Capsaicin can actually trigger some people to have diarrhea (because) in the intestines, it can speed up motility,” says de Latour. As capsaicin moves through the rectum and anus, it may cause a burning sensation on the way out.
In addition to the physical experience, there’s a psychological component, Terry adds. People may feel discomfort or panic when the burn hits. However, the pain can also trigger the release of endorphins, says Terry. The rush of these feel-good chemicals can create a sensation of relief, pleasure or euphoria.
Spice tolerance
Some people have a higher spice tolerance, which can be due to various factors including genetics, exposure to spicy foods and personality.
“The amount of TRPV1 receptors people have vary, and there are variations in the receptors themselves, so some people perceive heat more or less than others based on the number and type of receptors they have,” says Terry. If a person is born with fewer pain receptors, they may be better able tolerate the heat.
“There’s some evidence to suggest that continuous exposure, like people who grew up eating spicy food, can build up tolerance,” Terry says. This may be more common in parts of the world where spicy food is a staple of the cuisine — these include parts of Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa.
In people with a higher spice tolerance, their brain may associate the fiery burn with pleasure. Research shows people who like spicy food may have more thrill- or sensation-seeking personalities.
Is spicy food good for you?
“Spicy foods have been eaten for thousands of years by people and not caused significant health problems,” says de Latour.
Spicy food can be part of a healthy diet and most people can eat it regularly without any issues. Additionally, there’s research to suggest that spicy food may have health benefits — this is due to capsaicin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, experts note.
Capsaicin may also have antimicrobial effects, which is why it is traditionally used to preserve foods in warmer climates, says Terry.
However, it can be difficult to draw conclusions about the health effects of capsaicin because the amount of capsaicin and type of spicy foods consumed varies in many studies.
In any case, dashing hot sauce on junk food won’t transform it into a healthy meal. If you’re looking to get the benefits of capsaicin, the experts recommend adding spice in a healthful way to a nutritious diet with protein, fiber and nutrients from different food groups. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Spicy food benefits
“There definitely are benefits (to spicy food), and there’s some research to support this,” says de Latour. Eating spicy food regularly — as part of an overall healthy, balanced diet — may be helpful for:
Longevity
Heart health
Inflammation
Metabolism
Gut health
“There’s some data to say that eating spicy food is associated with living longer,” says de Latour. Research has shown that frequently eating spicy food may be associated with a lower mortality rate.
In a 2015 study published in the BMJ, which followed 500,000 adults in China between 2004 and 2008, researchers found that people who ate spicy food daily had a 14% lower risk of death compared to those who ate spicy food once a week.
However, there are many confounding factors, the experts note. “A lot of it may be that spicy foods often have other spices (such as turmeric) that are antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and contain vitamins,” says de Latour. Additionally, spicy food is often rich in vegetables, including the source of spice (peppers), says Terry. Overall, more research is needed.
Another benefit of spicy food is that it may help boost heart and gut health, largely thanks to the anti-inflammatory effects of capsaicin. A 2020 American Heart Association study showed that people who eat chili peppers have a significantly reduced risk of death from heart disease and cancer.
There’s some evidence that eating spicy foods may help boost metabolism slightly. “For people who might have slower gut motility, spicy foods might speed things up for them and make them normal,” de Latour adds. However, research on the link between metabolism and capsaicin is mixed.
While spicy food can be beneficial to health, there are some risks.
Spicy food risks
Generally, spicy food is safe to eat. “The overwhelming majority of people tolerate spicy food just fine,” says de Latour. However, spicy food can be harmful depending on the level of spice, the amount consumed and a person’s underlying health.
The pain and unpleasant side effects from eating spicy food are temporary and usually not a cause for concern, the experts note. However, certain people may need to avoid spicy foods.
Eating spicy food, especially in large quantities, can cause gastrointestinal distress, heartburn, acid reflux, vomiting or diarrhea. “The GI distress tends to be more common in people who have irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory conditions (such as Crohn’s). Spicy foods can exacerbate these,” says de Latour.
Spicy food does not cause stomach ulcers, the experts note. “However, if someone already has an ulcer and their stomach is trying to heal, spicy foods may worsen symptoms,” says de Latour.
The diarrhea and burning sensation of going No. 2 after spicy food aren’t pleasant, but can be riskier for some. “If someone has an anal fissure or irritation the anal area, having a lot of bowel movements will cause pain,” says de Latour.
Accidentally inhaling or aspirating spicy food may trigger breathing issues or an asthma attack in certain people, Terry notes.
If you have any underlying health conditions or digestive issues, talk to your doctor. “It’s really about listening to your body and knowing your tolerance,” de Latour adds.
Can spicy food kill you?
There are case reports of people having severe or life-threatening reactions after eating extremely spicy food, but these are extremely rare, the experts note. Still, the experts urge caution around spicy food challenges or trends online.
“Overall, spicy food is not dangerous … but some foods are so obscenely hot and scathing to the human body that it’s probably not the best thing to eat, especially regularly,” says de Latour.
Always read nutrition labels and when adding spice, start small and gradually add more to see what you can tolerate. “If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. It gives you pleasure, do it within reason. And be aware that not all peppers are equal,” says Terry.
How to cool down after eating spicy food
If you’re feeling the burn after eating spicy food, there are a few ways to try to cool down. These don’t include water, which will spread the heat around.
Instead, opt for something with some protein or fat, which can act as a buffer against the capsaicin, says Terry. Try these foods for spicy food relief:
