“Spicy food causes stomach ulcers”

The idea that spicy foods lead to stomach ulcers is a long-standing misconception, likely born from the intense burning sensation that chili peppers can produce. For decades, before a deeper understanding of gastrointestinal health emerged, it was intuitive to link the discomfort caused by spicy food to internal damage, leading to advice to avoid "fiery" dishes for stomach health.

However, scientific research has clearly demonstrated that spicy food does not cause stomach ulcers. The primary culprits behind most ulcers are infections with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and the prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. H. pylori can weaken the stomach's protective lining, making it vulnerable to stomach acid, while NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and interfere with its natural defense mechanisms.

People often continue to believe this myth because the capsaicin in spicy foods activates pain receptors in the digestive tract, creating a sensation of heat or burning. This can be particularly noticeable for individuals who already have an existing ulcer, as spicy food might irritate it and worsen symptoms like pain or indigestion. However, this irritation is not the same as causing the ulcer itself. In fact, some studies even suggest that capsaicin might have beneficial effects, potentially stimulating the stomach to produce protective mucus and increase blood flow, which could help prevent ulcers.