From gastric issues to excessive sweating: 7 signs you’re overeating red chili (2024)

Many people enjoy spicy foods, it be eating momos with spicy red dip or topping chaat with added red chili. Red chili is used as a taste enhancer and seasoning. But ‘laal mirch’ also has certain negative consequences. So, you must ensure you don’t consume too much of it. Keep an eye out for these symptoms to determine whether or not you are consuming too much red chili.

Health Shots spoke to Dr Archana Batra, who is a nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, and physiotherapist, to understand the side effects of eating red chili and the symptoms of eating too much of it.

Batra says, “Most of us enjoy spicy foods despite being unaware of their disadvantages and side effects. Eating too much red chili, which makes our food hot and spicy, can cause heartburn or digestive problems. It doesn’t stop there; it can also cause serious health problems.”

Here are 7 signs of eating too much red chilies:

1. Stomach ulcer

Consuming too much red chili powder may make you more likely to have stomach ulcers. Additionally, this illness may prove to be fatal for you. “Aflatoxin, which red chilies contain, increases the chance of getting stomach ulcers, liver cirrhosis, and even colon cancer in some situations,” according to Batra.

2. Digestive issues

Red chilies contain capsaicin, which can irritate your digestive system and cause a number of problems like heartburn, acid reflux, loose stools, gas or a loss of appetite. After consuming hot or spicy foods, you might feel satisfied at first, but after some time, you might sense that something is wrong with your digestive system. Try to limit your intake of red chili.

3. Nausea and vomiting

Consuming red chili in excess might have detrimental effects on your health. It could cause diarrhoea, abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. After consuming too many chilies, you can try ice cream, cottage cheese, or cold milk to calm your stomach.

Also read: Green or red chillies: Is one healthier than the other?

4. Increase stress levels

The spice in chili is provided by capsaicin; this substance can become harmful if you eat too much of it. Batra says, “When consumed in excess, the spice causes the body to release endorphins, a hormone your body releases when it feels pain or stress.”

5. Blisters and rashes

Red chili can make breathing difficult, lead to mouth sores, and trigger uncontrolled vomiting. Additionally, a red chili sensitivity might result in a rash or an irritated mouth, which can spread an infection.

6. Excessive sweating

Chili frequently causes the upper lips to sweat, your eyes to tear up, and your mouth to feel the fire. On the other hand, eating a lot of hot peppers will make your body sweat. Batra says, “Capsaicin increases body temperature, which may result in excessive sweating.”

7. Irritated lips

A burning sensation in the mouth and on the lips is a potential side effect of red chili. According to Batra, even milder spices can cause an allergic reaction. So, consume chilies in moderation.