Does your stomach get upset after eating something hot? Did you know that spicy food can cause stomach problems? If it is happening, you are not alone! Spicy food offers varying degrees of heat and while some foods may have lower spices, they may still trigger an upset stomach or other gastric issues.
Spicy foods contain chili in some form, which may tantalize your taste buds but you may have to suffer the consequences in the form of stomach issues. You may face stomach discomfort sometimes after consuming foods high in spices, but if you have an underlying gastric disease, such as GERD, spicy foods can trigger heartburn and acid reflux. Read more to know about some effective ways to settle your stomach after eating spicy food.
Table of Contents
Why Does Spicy Food Cause A Stomach Burn Sensation?
All spices are not the same, and some spices like turmeric have also been used in traditional medicine due to their healing properties. However, spices that are derived from chili can be problematic and if you are prone to stomach issues, you should avoid them.
Spicy food can be irresistible if you prefer the hot flavor. While moderately consuming spicy food may not be as harmful, eating spicy food often and a lot can have repercussions for your health. Most chili peppers contain capsaicin, which is a natural compound that has its pros and cons. A common problem with this ingredient is that it can irritate your intestines and cause frequent and watery bowel movements, leading to diarrhea.
Moreover, spicy foods can also irritate the stomach lining and give you a burning sensation. Excessive intake of food full of spices can also lead to heartburn and can trigger or worsen symptoms of GERD. It can make you feel uncomfortable and may require an antacid or other forms of treatment.
Home Remedies For Gastric Relief After Eating Spicy Food
Do you want to know what helps soothe your stomach after eating spicy food? Read on to learn useful remedies that can help provide relief at home, but if you are facing extreme gastric issues, it is best to consult a gastric doctor.
1. Dairy
Dairy products, such as yogurt, are often served with Pakistani dishes to adjust the effect of spices and provide a cooling effect. You can also drink a glass of milk after consuming spicy food to soothe your tongue and stomach. Most dairy products contain casein, which is a protein that breaks down capsaicin. Moreover, it neutralizes stomach acid and prevents gastric issues that occur due to consuming spicy foods.
2. Banana
Banana is a highly nutritious and delicious fruit, but did you know they can also alleviate stomach aches that may occur after eating spicy food? Banana is an organic remedy that aids soothe your stomach after eating a fiery meal. They act as a natural antacid and can relieve digestive issues.
Bananas are high in potassium, which can prevent stomach lining irritation by increasing mucus production in the stomach, preventing issues like heartburn and acid reflux. So if you are looking for a simple remedy to soothe your stomach after eating spicy food, try a banana.
3. Ginger
Another simple and natural remedy, ginger is a staple found in all Pakistani households. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate pain and swelling. Moreover, the main compound in ginger known as gingerol soothes your stomach and relieves stomach pain. Research suggests that ginger also improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and helps your stomach digest food faster.
It can alleviate heartburn, which may occur as a side effect of eating spicy food. You can eat ginger raw, though it may not be very pleasant in taste. Drinking ginger tea can also be equally helpful. All you have to do is seep a piece of ginger in boiling water and let it simmer for five minutes. Once done, drink it to settle your stomach and prevent any negative side effects. You can add honey or lemon to add flavor to this tea.
4. Mint
Mind, or podina leaves, are used in many Pakistani dishes as an ingredient and as a garnish. It is a herb that has a cooling effect on your body. It is used in traditional medicine as a remedy for stomach problems. Mint contains menthol that can calm your stomach and treat gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating or indigestion, which may occur after eating hot food.
Furthermore, it can speed up the digestive process and eliminate indigestion. It is also known to improve the condition of those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Studies show that peppermint oil is the most effective solution to your digestive issues. You can also add mint to yogurt to make raita as a condiment, which reduces the spice level of dishes like Biryani. Mint tea can also help resolve your stomach issues.
5. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe Vera is a plant known for its multiple benefits for your body and skin. Applying aloe vera is a common remedy for sunburn and soothing burnt skin. Similarly, Aloe Vera juice can also be beneficial for your stomach as it can calm your stomach lining and provide relief from gastric issues.
It also promotes healthy gut bacteria and can provide relief from an upset stomach caused by eating spicy food. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help lower any inflammation in the digestive tract and cleanse it from within. You can drink it as a juice or take an aloe vera supplement to maximize its benefits.
6. Honey water
Honey is a naturally sweet substance obtained from natural sources. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can increase healthy gut bacteria and reduce swelling to improve your digestive process. You may also use honey as a remedy for diarrhea.
Warm water in itself can ease gastrointestinal issues as it increases the digestion speed, making it easier for you to digest spicy food. Combining these two ingredients and drinking them after eating a heavy and spicy meal can soothe your stomach. It protects your stomach from any issues that may occur due to intense spices.
7. Cinnamon
Another popular and natural herb, cinnamon is found in most homes in Pakistan due to its use in different dishes. It is also known for its medicinal properties and it can positively impact your stomach health. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties that can relieve stomach discomfort and bloating.
It can also aid in the treatment of stomach upset and the symptoms associated with it. You can add a stick of cinnamon to your food to prevent stomach discomfort, or drinking cinnamon tea can resolve stomach issues that may happen after you eat spicy food.
8. Medication
If the symptoms are not very severe and easily manageable at home, over-the-counter medicines can be helpful for you. Antacids are a famous and easy-to-use method for improving digestion and alleviating stomach discomfort. You can buy antacids easily from a pharmacy and helps with your digestion issues.
Moreover, taking an OTC painkiller can eliminate stomach pain and improve your condition. If your symptoms are severe, you should consult a stomach doctor. They can guide you on which medications are most effective for your condition. Home remedies and OTC medicines can be equally useful in relieving your digestion issues.
Conclusion
Spicy food can be irresistible, especially for fans of fiery meals. Spices derived from chili pepper contain capsaicin, which is a natural compound that can irritate your stomach and cause discomfort. It can also cause heartburn, acid reflux, and pain. Spices in food can also worsen the symptoms of stomach-related illnesses such as GERD. If you already suffer from a gastric problem, avoiding spicy food completely is best for preventing such occurrences.
Are you looking for a home remedy to settle your stomach after eating spicy food? There are many of these mentioned above that can be helpful. These home remedies include a variety of commonly found ingredients in most kitchens. Ingredients such as mint, ginger, and cinnamon are readily available in most households and they can cool your stomach after eating spicy food.
Additionally, you can have fresh milk or yogurt as it can help increase good bacteria in your gut and resolve stomach issues. You can also eat a banana after a spicy lunch or dinner to calm your taste buds and stomach. Bananas can speed up digestion due to their potassium content and are worth trying. Drinking honey water or aloe vera juice can also aid in alleviating digestive issues.
They can neutralize stomach acid and regulate bowel movements, making it easier for you to digest a hot and zesty meal. OTC medications can also provide relief from gastric issues. You should talk to a gastroenterologist if you have a serious gastric condition or your stomach gets upset more than usual after consuming spicy food.
