Does Milk Help With Spicy Food? (2024)

FAQs

What neutralizes spicy food? ›

One of the best ways to counteract this chemical compound is by adding a dairy product: whole fat milk, heavy cream, yogurt, cheese, or sour cream. Even rich coconut milk can do the trick. Sugars help to neutralize the heat of chile peppers. So try adding a little sugar or honey to balance out too-hot flavors.

Scientists confirm drinking milk after eating extra spicy foods 'reduces the burning sensation in the back of the throat better than water' as they find KOOL-AID also works.

The bottom line. Next time a dish sets your mouth on fire, reach for a glass of milk to best quench the burn. If you don't have milk on hand, a sugary drink, olive oil, or rice can also do the trick.

Can spicy food damage your tongue? No, not when you ingest the amounts we typically consume in food. In fact, when you eat spicy food, you're not burning your tongue at all—you're a victim of a neurological response.

1. DON'T drink water. It will only spread the fiery chemical around your mouth and make the burning sensation worse.

Some heavy dairy products such as cream, ice cream, cheese etc can assist with the burn in the stomach whereas bananas or fibrous foods can assist with the transit of the chillies once ingested. Knowing that your stomach is prepared can be a big help.

The bottom line. If you enjoy spicy foods, there's promising research that spices and peppers that contain the compound capsaicin can benefit your health. This includes improving your gut microbiome, possibly lowering your blood pressure, improving good cholesterol levels, and even revving up your metabolism.

Hot or spicy is not a taste

Technically, this is just a pain signal sent by the nerves that transmit touch and temperature sensations. The substance “capsaicin” in foods seasoned with chili causes a sensation of pain and heat.

Did You Know? Spicy foods contain a chemical called capsaicin, which activates a receptor found in your mouth and on your tongue called a TRPV1 receptor. There is some variation in the sensitivity of these receptors, and even the amount of them, from person to person.

While it may feel like your taste buds may be singed forever, the pain is temporary. The burn from capsaicin generally dissipates in about 15 minutes, according to McGee. Serena Ball, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian nutritionist, food writer and recipe developer.

What can damage your tongue? ›

Drink cold water and suck on ice chips or a popsicle to soothe the pain. Coldwater can quickly reduce irritation by bringing down the temperature of your burning tongue and keep your mouth hydrated (salivary flow is key to ensure bacteria don't further harm the area).

That's right — certain foods may make your tongue hurt. You may have what's called oral allergy syndrome. This condition is also known as pollen-food syndrome, and it's most often caused by raw fruits, vegetables, and certain tree nuts.

Avoiding spicy and irritating foods

Spicy and acidic foods (like pineapple, lemon, and tomato) can worsen tongue soreness. Until the soreness goes away, avoid these foods. Instead, eat soft, bland foods, like mashed potatoes and oatmeal.