Spicy food can boost metabolism and increase your appetite. The capsaicin found in chili peppers can even create a craving, making you reach for spicy dishes more often. But why does your throat hurt after eating spicy food?

Causes of a Sore Throat After Eating Spicy Food

Adding chili peppers to your meals enhances flavor and stimulates the appetite, but it can also cause throat discomfort, similar to how sour or greasy foods might affect you.

According to the Mayo Clinic, consuming spicy foods can irritate or cause sores in the throat. Spicy foods may also trigger excessive mucus production and inflammation, which can result in pain or discomfort.

Additionally, spicy foods can lead to acid reflux, where stomach acid and partially digested food flow back into the esophagus. This acid irritates the esophagus, causing a burning sensation, chest discomfort, and heartburn, along with a bitter taste in the mouth.

Foods to Avoid When You Have a Sore Throat

If your throat hurts from consuming spicy or sour foods, it’s important to avoid certain types of food that could worsen the discomfort or delay healing. These include:

• Spicy foods or spices
• Oily or fried foods
• Acidic foods and drinks (such as oranges, tomatoes, and vinegar)
• Carbonated beverages
• Alcoholic drinks
• Hard or crunchy foods (like crackers)
• Very hot foods and drinks
• Dairy products like cheese

Natural Ways to Relieve a Sore Throat from Spicy Foods

A sore throat caused by spicy foods usually resolves on its own, but there are some simple home remedies you can try to ease the discomfort:

Drink Honey

Honey can help soothe a sore throat. You can either mix it with warm water or consume it directly for relief.

Gargle Salt Water

Gargling warm salt water can help reduce irritation, break up mucus, and eliminate bacteria in the throat. To make it, simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle. For more severe discomfort, try gargling 2-3 times a day.

Drink Tea

Chamomile and peppermint tea are known for their soothing properties. Peppermint, in particular, contains menthol, which reduces inflammation, freshens breath, and makes your throat feel more comfortable.

To make the tea, steep dried peppermint or chamomile leaves in boiling water, then strain and let it cool slightly. Drink 1-2 cups daily for relief.

Drink More Water

Spicy food can sometimes lead to a dry throat, so it’s essential to stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least 7-8 glasses of water a day to keep your throat moist and reduce discomfort.

Spicy and sour foods can irritate the throat and cause pain or discomfort. If you find that spicy foods bother you, it’s best to limit your intake to avoid further irritation.

If you continue to experience throat or digestive issues, consult a doctor or use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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