Why does water make peppers hotter

Starches like bread and rice totally tame that hotter-than-hot feeling by soaking it all up. It can dissolve capsaicin as effectively as the fats in dairy, so a spoonful of olive oil or even peanut butter!

Granulated sugar and even honey can dilute spice. Just mix a tablespoon of sugar or honey into a glass of water and chug away. Or you can always try squirting enough honey into your mouth to coat your tongue. Follow Delish on Instagram. Kitchen Tips and Tools. Delish Shop. Hot peppers can make you feel like your mouth is on fire. The American Chemical Society explains the science behind that burn and why drinking water is one of the worse things you can do to ease that pain. The chemical compound responsible for the burning sensation you can get when eating spicy foods is called capsaicin.

It binds to pain receptors in your mouth, which then can trigger a reaction like your eyes tearing up or your nose running. The video explains that capsaicin is a non-polar molecule and dissolves in other non-polar molecules, so drinking milk, which contains non-polar molecules, will give you relief. No wonder that Thai and Indian cuisines, often so spicy, incorporate a lot of dairy into their meals. Alcohol also has this effect — to an extent. However, only a high concentration of alcohol will be enough to help remove the capsaicinoids.

However, a shot of vodka or a similar spirit will be more effective. Some other ways you can relieve the heat of capsaicin is with coconut water or coconut milk, which works similarly to dairy. Some types of acids, like citric acid from lime and lemons, can also help reduce the heat.

So consider getting some kind of beverage like milk or coconut water, or even a few dollops of yogurt to help relieve the heat, and keep your mouth cool while eating spicy foods.

Spiciness is just like any other flavor. Some people even have gastrointestinal issues after spicy meals — and if you are susceptible to an upset stomach or acid reflux, very spicy dishes could be harmful to your health. So know your limits and respect your limits.

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