Can Eating Spicy Food Cause Stomach Ulcers? Dietitian Explains

If you love spicy foods but constantly worry that it may burn a hole in your stomach, you are certainly not alone. Many people fear that spicy foods may lead to stomach ulcers. For decades, spicy food has been termed as the primary culprit behind these painful gastrointestinal issues. Before you completely throw away your favorite fiery sauces from the kitchen, it is important to understand whether these ingredients actually interact with your digestive system or not. In this article, top dietitians and medical experts have attempted to separate fact from fiction. 

To set the record straight, we spoke with Ms Chitra BK, Chief of Dietetics, KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru. The expert mentions the actual triggers behind stomach ulcers, and who should be cautious of spicy foods. 

Can Eating Spicy Food Cause Stomach Ulcers?

Ms Chitra says that it is a common myth that the consumption of spicy foods leads to stomach ulcers; however, research shows no direct link between spicy foods and stomach ulcers.  She explains, “The two most common causes of peptic ulcers are infection with Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) bacteria and prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin.”

The expert adds, “Despite the fact that there is no direct connection between spicy foods and stomach ulcers, people with pre-existing gastritis, heartburn, or ulceration will experience additional pain after eating spicy foods because capsaicin contained in chilli peppers can irritate people with sensitive stomachs.”

Ms Chitra further explains, “Consumption of spicy foods by individuals with a well-functioning gastrointestinal tract will not pose any problems and might even be beneficial for their health due to anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. However, it is important to know your body and your limits, and avoid any products which cause discomfort in the stomach."

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

According to the National Health Service (NHS), the main symptom of a stomach ulcer is abdominal pain which:

• is usually in the upper part of your tummy
• may feel like burning
• is often worse at night

It mentions that the other symptoms of a stomach ulcer include indigestion, heartburn (a burning sensation in your chest), bloating and feeling or being sick.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

Ms Chitra says that it is advisable to visit a doctor and get examined instead of diagnosing yourself and cutting down spices from your meals. She mentions that you should seek medical attention if you witness the following symptoms:

• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Weight loss

“It is necessary to identify the source of the problem, which might be H pylori bacteria or medications. Proper nutrition, reduced alcohol intake, smoking cessation, avoiding painkillers, and dealing with stress can help maintain good condition of your digestive system,” adds the expert. 

Can Spicy Foods Help You Live Longer?

A 2015 study, published in The BMJ journal, explored whether eating spicy foods impacts our overall health and risk of death. The researchers examined nearly half a million adults over seven years to understand the long-term effects of their dietary habits. They discovered that people who frequently ate spicy foods had a significantly lower overall risk of dying, as compared to those who rarely consumed them. In fact, individuals who enjoyed spicy meals six or seven days a week experienced a 14% reduction in their total risk of mortality. 

The study noted that regular consumption of spicy foods is  directly linked to a reduced risk of dying from specific severe conditions, including cancer, ischemic heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. Another interesting fact is that these protective health benefits were found to be even stronger in individuals who did not consume alcohol. 

The scientists noted that bioactive ingredients in spices, especially the capsaicin found in chili peppers, are the primary drivers causing these positive health outcomes. Previous evidence has shown that these active compounds can effectively fight bacteria, boost gut health, and combat obesity. The study concluded that regularly adding spicy foods into your diet may offer significant protective health benefits and may help you live a longer life. 

ALSO READ- Should You Avoid Spicy Foods During Your Period? Here’s What You Need To Know

Conclusion

To summarise, the myth that eating spicy food directly causes stomach ulcers has been thoroughly debunked by medical experts, as well as scientific research. The real triggers for these painful gastrointestinal sores are actually H. pylori bacterial infections or the prolonged use of common pain medications. However, if you already have a sensitive stomach or an existing digestive issue, it is better to limit your spice intake to avoid unnecessary irritation. If you have a healthy gut, embracing spicy foods may actually offer incredible antioxidant benefits and even lower your overall risk of mortality, as per studies.