Why do i crave spicy food on my period

A study has shown that the frequency of chilli intake is positively linked to certain personality variables such as sensation-seeking (SS) and sensitivity to reward (STR). The SS refers to the need for new, varied and complex sensations and experiences, regardless of any social or physical risks associated with it, while STR refers to a personality trait in which a person derives pleasure or reward from things like foods or drugs. [2]

The burning and stinging sensation of capsaicin may induce a strong liking towards spicy foods and may also trigger cravings towards them when the desire is not met. [3]

2. To adjust to a cold environment

A journal has shown that capsaicin in chilli peppers can have a positive effect on the body temperature and may affect the warm sensors of the body's regulatory system.

Therefore, when the environment is cool or a person feels cold, consuming spicy foods, which are rich in capsaicin, can help trigger the feeling of warmth in their body and may help adjust to the cold temperature of the surroundings. [4]

3. Dieting

One of the reasons for craving spicy foods is dieting. A Springer journal has shown that diet-induced cravings can be mainly due to deficiency of nutrition or suppression of desire to eat certain foods.

A person may crave spicy foods as they may have a deficiency of capsaicin (a vital compound in chillis) in their bodies or they might have suppressed their desire to eat spicy foods due to certain restrictions. The theory is, however, unclear as the findings are just based on experimental studies. [5]

4. Increase in brain activity

Cravings for spicy food may also increase due to an increase in brain activity. According to a study, spicy food cravers may show increased activation of certain brain areas such as the left dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, left putamen, bilateral cuneus and right precentral gyrus, compared to non-cravers.

These brain areas are involved in activities like motor control, cognition, learning and movements. Therefore, when these activities increase, the brain activity increases too, leading to an increase in the cravings for spicy food. [6]

Craving for certain foods has been linked to eating disorders such as emotional eating, binge eating and overeating in many studies. A study links experiential avoidance (attempts to avoid behaviours such as bodily sensations, thoughts and emotions) with eating disorders and food cravings.

It says that when a person avoids or suppresses their emotions, they get vulnerable to eating more food (emotional eating) to reduce their unpleasant feelings. This triggers in them the eating disorders. Similarly, sometimes, a person with eating disorders may also seek spicy foods to cope with their disorder. [7]

6. Having a higher body mass index

A study conducted on 108 healthy women between ages 20-37, has shown that women with a higher body mass report more consistent cravings for foods such as chocolate, ice cream, fatty foods and spicy foods.

Though the cravings are more for chocolate-based or sweet food items, spicy food was also on the list. Having a higher body mass or weight may increase your cravings for spicy foods. [8]

7. Being pregnant

Food craving during pregnancy is common and is mainly not related to any nutritional deficiencies but an increase in the demand for energy and hormonal changes.

Among the most common types of foods which are craved by pregnant women, spicy foods constitute 3.3 per cent, with sweet foods (34.7 per cent) and fruits (12.7 per cent) being the top two food groups. Changes in hormones during pregnancy may also lead to cravings for specific foods such as spice-filled foods. [9]

8. Depression

Capsaicin is known to have anti-depressant activities that may help tackle mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Even small amounts of capsaicin can help induce anti-depressant-like effects in the body and reduce it.

Therefore, when a person is depressed or has chronic anxiety, they may crave spicy foods as the pungency of capsaicin in these foods may help lower their depressive symptoms and give them a sensation of pleasure. [10]

Some of the symptoms of rhinitis include runny nose, sneezing or nasal congestion. A study mentions that capsaicin may help produce a burning sensation in the body and help relieve these symptoms.

It may work as a therapeutic compound and help alleviate inflammation or allergy-causing rhinitis symptoms. Therefore, a person down with fever or those experiencing these symptoms may crave spicy foods to get relief from the condition. [11]

10. To feel nice and happy

As aforementioned, capsaicin is an anti-depressant and could be a mood booster active compound. A study talks about how capsaicin may trigger a sensation of burning pain due to its pungent flavour and activate the sensory neurons.

These neurons send signals to the brain regarding a burning pain, which may make the brain release pain-relieving enzyme endorphins to boost the mood. In simple terms, a person may crave spicy foods when they want to feel nice or be happy for a while. [12]

11. Social influences

A study talks about how our eating behaviours may get influenced by social factors such as cultural expectations or eating behaviours of people surrounding us.

No matter what our personal choice of foods is, it is more likely that we tend to start following the eating behaviours similar to people surrounding us or our culture. Therefore, if a person belongs to a culture where people mainly consume spicy foods, chances are they may also develop the same behaviours.[13]

To Conclude

Cravings for spicy foods can also develop suddenly in individuals just by looking at spicy foods or by the smell of the food. These cravings are not bad only if you consume the foods in limited amounts, as the excess consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues. Consult a medical expert if you think your craving is persistent and is causing you harm.

We seek out spicy food from time to time. The spice it gives makes many foods more delicious and enjoyable. If you’re a fan of spicy food, then the kick it provides is something you’ll crave from time to time. Still, it may make you wonder:

Why am I craving spicy food? If you crave spicy food, you’re probably overheated, and you need something hot to release it. In addition, it may be an emotional cause, congestion, or if you haven’t eaten anything spicy for a while. Whatever the reason, you need to find out what triggers your cravings.

Your body’s desire for heat often causes spicy food and spicy food cravings. Usually, it occurs when the body overheats, but it can also be emotionally based. It can also be an emotional issue or as simple as missing spicy food in your appetite.

You can learn more about spicy food cravings, including their possible causes and possible solutions, in this article. In this way, you can understand what happens when you crave these and fix them.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Why do I crave spicy food?

What does it mean when you are craving spicy food? You probably crave spicy food for one of the following reasons. Read them to see if any of them apply to you.

Let’s have a look!

You haven’t had anything spicy for a while.

If you haven’t eaten anything spicy for a while, you may crave spicy food. You’re likely to experience increased cravings if you eliminate spicy foods from your diet.

One study found that short-term food deprivation may lead to increased cravings for whatever food you’re avoiding.

A review from an older study notes that restricting or depriving oneself of a particular food can cause cravings due to multiple underlying mental and emotional processes.

There has been little research on the relationship between food deprivation and cravings for spicy foods, but other studies have shown the same effect with other foods like chocolate and salty snacks.

You’re emotionally down or stressed.

You may also crave spicy foods if you are stressed or down emotionally. If you’re feeling depressed or down, adding a few spicy foods to your diet might help. Capsaicin may cause a slight pleasure sensation.

It is thought that this plant compound causes a burning sensation when eaten or applied to the skin. When you feel pain, your body releases endorphins that activate your opiate receptors and make you feel pleasure.

Depression and other conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, may disturb endorphin levels.

Despite limited evidence to suggest that spicy foods or capsaicin affect depression or mood in humans, studies in mice suggest capsaicin may act as an antidepressant.

You’re overheating.

If you crave spicy food, you are probably overheating, and the spicy food will help you release that heat.

Spicy foods may appeal to you when you’re feeling hot or overheated. That’s because spicy foods can help you cool down.

The peppers’ characteristic spicy flavor comes from capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers.

Several studies have shown that capsaicin may develop a process that maintains your body’s internal temperature called thermoregulation. 

As a result of consuming capsaicin, you may feel warm and sweat to cool off. In summary, you can always give in to your cravings if it helps release heat from your body caused by overheating.

You’re congested.

Another possible reason for your spicy food cravings is congestion. For example, if you have nasal congestion, you may crave such to help you breathe.

Many people experience runny noses after eating spicy foods. Additionally, hot soups, sauces, and seasonings are often recommended as natural remedies for sickness.

According to some research, spicy foods may help reduce congestion and stuffiness.

Studies have shown that nasal sprays containing capsaicin can reduce symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis, a condition characterized by congestion, sneezing, and runny nose.

According to one review, this product at first causes mild irritation, but over time it improves symptoms. If you have congestion, you can give in to your cravings. 

Why am I craving spicy food all of a sudden?

When you suddenly crave spicy food, likely, you haven’t eaten anything spicy in a while. If you reduce the consumption of spicy foods, you will likely experience increased cravings.

According to a study, short-term food deprivation can increase cravings for whatever you’re avoiding.

It has been shown that restricting or denying oneself of a particular food may lead to cravings due to multiple underlying mental and emotional processes.

To summarize, you may be able to overcome your cravings if you give in to them and eat some spicy food in small amounts. But, of course, if you only eat a tiny amount, you will be fine.

Why am I craving spicy food all the time?

Whenever you crave spicy food, you are either overheated or emotional. 

It has been suggested that capsaicin may help with thermoregulation, the process of maintaining your body’s temperature. 

In addition to producing a warming sensation, capsaicin may cause you to sweat to help you cool down.

When you’re feeling down or depressed, add some spicy foods to your diet. There may be a slight pleasure sensation caused by capsaicin.

In other words, to satisfy your cravings and solve your underlying problem, you should give in to them. In addition, it will help you if you feel stressed or have any health problems. 

How to stop craving spicy food?

If you stop craving spicy food, get some spicy food and try it out. Or you can always order anything spicy.

You can always try spicy food if you need that kick. But, to make sure you don’t overeat, you only need to make sure you don’t overeat.

If you consume spicy foods in moderation, you can always give in to your cravings in small amounts to satisfy them.

What to eat when craving spicy food?

If you are craving spicy food, you can always eat anything with a bit of heat in it. Spicy food can be anything from meat to noodles to pizza.

When you crave spicy food, you’re looking for the spice and kick rather than the sauce itself. So rather than eating spicy food on its own, it is better to eat it with actual food rather than eating it alone.

As long as you don’t overdo it with spicy food, you won’t have any problems with your cravings. This way, you can enjoy your cravings without compromising your health.

Craving spicy food during pregnancy

Why are you craving spicy food when pregnant? When you crave spicy foods when pregnant, it is most likely due to hormonal changes that impact your taste and scent.

During pregnancy, pregnant women are drawn to hot, spicy meals. In addition, during pregnancy, hormonal shifts might impact your perception of taste and smell, resulting in specific cravings.

You will find it simpler to adjust to your pregnancy if you give in to these cravings rather than battling them. Keep in mind that you should take spicy foods in proper amounts to be safe.

Craving spicy food before period

Why are you craving spicy food before your period? Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels cause a craving for spicy foods before menstruation.

When you’re ready to have your monthly period, spicy food cravings are typical, especially when consuming anything hot.

If you follow this advice, you will be able to fulfill your craving for spicy cuisine throughout your next period. However, it is advised to eat such in moderation to avoid future difficulties.

Craving spicy food on period

Why are you craving spicy food when you are on your period? Your body craves spicy meals due to variations in estrogen and progesterone levels during your period.

When you have your monthly period, it is typical to experience eating spicy foods. As a result, it’s nothing to be concerned about because it happens for a reason.

You’ll be able to satisfy your spicy food cravings during your period so that you won’t be affected. Despite this, it is advised to eat such in moderation to avoid further issues.

Craving spicy food at night

Why are you craving spicy food at night? If you have a nighttime craving for spicy food, avoid it since it will not help you sleep better. Instead, consuming a hot sauce or dish will keep you awake in most circumstances.

There are two reasons why you should avoid spicy meals before bed. One reason is that they might irritate the stomach and create heartburn, making it harder to relax before going to bed.

To summarize, you should ignore your cravings or eat or drink something else to help you sleep.

Craving spicy food when sick

Why are you craving spicy food when you are sick? If you crave spicy food while you’re unwell, it’s because your body needs the heat from the sauce to release the fever.

You may crave spicy foods to breathe when you have nasal congestion correctly.

People who eat spicy foods get runny noses later. So spicy soups, sauces, and spices are generally advised when you’re feeling under the weather.

If you’re ill and your fever is high, spicy food might help you get rid of it. However, it is not ideal because it may cause stomach trouble. In short, you should not give in to your cravings and consume anything else.

Can you have a spicy food addiction?

Spicy food may become addictive, and it is neither healthy nor safe. Furthermore, if taken in large quantities, this type of sauce and other hot foods will be detrimental to your health. So, if you enjoy eating it, don’t consume too much of it.

If you want to overcome your cravings, consume as little as possible and then move on. You will not become hooked or overeat as a result of doing so.

Is craving spicy food a sign of pregnancy?

Pregnancy may be associated with a preference for spicy foods. It is typical for pregnant women to have food cravings, impacting 50 percent to 90 percent of them.

Spicy meals, in general, are typical desires. The research found that around 3.3 percent of women desired hot meals such as curry, chili, and spices.

While it’s unknown why pregnant women have food cravings, experts believe it’s a mix of hormonal shifts, dietary deficits, and specific components or molecules in the foods they want.

Can you eat too much spicy food?

Yes, you can overeat spicy foods, and it’s not a good idea. Capsaicin, abundant in spicy foods, can induce diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps if ingested in significant amounts.

If you have unfavorable reactions to spicy foods, you should restrict your intake and eliminate them from your diet.

Furthermore, if you love spicy food, you should limit your intake to not overload your body with it.

Frequently asked questions

Now, let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions about our spicy food cravings. This way, you may find some helpful information about your concerns, and you may probably solve some of your problems.

What does craving spicy food mean emotionally?

Additionally, you may crave spicy food or spicy foods for emotional reasons. Thus, when you’re feeling down or depressed, you may crave spicy food. Nonetheless, capsaicin may cause a slight feeling of pleasure.

When ingested or applied, this plant compound can cause a burning sensation. When you feel pain, your body releases endorphins, which trigger your opiate receptors, causing pleasure.

You may disrupt endorphin levels in depression and other conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

What deficiency causes you to crave spicy food?

A nutrient deficiency doesn’t usually cause a craving for spicy food. Instead, spicy food and other spicy foods are generally craved because you feel decongested or overheated.

In short, you don’t have to worry about a possible nutrient deficiency when craving spicy food. However, if you want to be sure, you can look at other nutrient deficiency symptoms.

In essence, several factors might explain your desire for spicy foods. When you’re pregnant, cravings for spicy foods may be more prevalent if you’re on a diet where spicy foods aren’t allowed. Additionally, craving spicy foods could indicate that you’re overheated or congested.

No matter the reason for your craving, spicy foods should be consumed in moderation and avoided if you experience adverse side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion.

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• Craving Pasta
• Craving Kratom
• Craving Sushi
• Craving Popcorn

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