The Little India menu is packed with a variety of Indian dishes, from popular contemporary curries to traditional options. Our patrons are all different, with some heading straight for the heat while others choose milder food. Those who love spices have discovered that the heat in them can cause the release of endorphins, which make you feel good and satisfied. But why might you suddenly find yourself experiencing a craving for spicy food?
Overheating
On a hot summer’s day you might step into our Little India restaurant craving not a mild dish but a vindaloo or a pathia. It seems illogical, but spicy food can actually help our bodies to regulate their temperature, having a cooling effect when it’s eaten on a hot day or after physical activity. Capsaicin, found in chillies, activates certain receptors in the skin, helping you to sweat and cool down. Other spices that have a thermogenic effect include ginger, cloves and cinnamon, which are often found in Indian dishes.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is known for its tendency to cause cravings. While some women develop an extra sweet tooth during pregnancy, others want spicy foods. The reason for this is not well researched, but it could be due to a combination of hormonal changes – which can affect your sense of taste and smell – nutrient deficiencies and the presence of certain ingredients or compounds in spicy foods.
Congestion
There are some who swear by a hot curry when they are congested – and science seems to indicate they’re right. Research suggests that spicy food can help clear blocked sinuses by making your nose run and breaking up mucus. So next time you have a cold, bring the heat to alleviate your symptoms!
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes or imbalances may be the cause of a craving for spicy food. Serotonin and leptin levels can trigger a desire for heat, with studies suggesting that capsaicin in particular can influence appetite and regulate energy balance. One 2015 study drew a link between testosterone levels and preferences for spicy food, suggesting that higher levels of the hormone may lead to cravings for heat.
Stress
Ever wondered why a stressful day puts you in the mood for a curry? The body mistakes the heat in spicy food for pain, producing endorphins – the body’s natural painkillers – in response. This makes you feel better and decreases your perception of stress.
Are there risks to spicy food?
As with many things, spicy food eaten in moderation carries very few risks. However, if you find yourself reaching for the chillies on a daily basis, you may find it’s not so good for your health. Excessive capsaicin intake can lead to nausea, indigestion and heartburn.
Satisfy your spice cravings
If you’re craving spicy foods, why not satisfy them at our Little India restaurant in London? With a range of delicious dishes to choose from, including balti, pathia and vindaloo, we have plenty on our menu to suit your preferences. Book your table today and enjoy an authentic taste of India.
