Spicy food can pack quite the punch, leaving you with a burning sensation in your mouth and throat. While some enjoy the heat, others struggle to consume anything spicy.

So, what do you do when you’ve eaten something too spicy? Luckily, there are foods and drinks you can consume to ease the heat. Here are some of the best foods to combat spicy sensations.

Dairy

Dairy products are known for their ability to cool down spicy heat. The protein in milk binds to the compounds in spicy food that cause the burning sensation, providing relief. A glass of milk or a spoonful of yogurt can do the trick.

Ice cream is also a great option as it is a cold, dairy-based treat.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates like bread, rice, and pasta can help mitigate the heat of spicy food. Simple carbs like bread and rice are effective at soaking up the heat, while noodles provide a starchy base that dilutes the spice.

Additionally, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and other starchy vegetables can do the same trick.

Vegetables

Certain vegetables can help neutralize the spiciness of foods. Cooked carrots, for example, are sweet and can counteract heat. Similarly, cucumbers are refreshing and can ease the burn.

Additionally, avocado has a healthy fat content which can help absorb the heat.

Fruits

Fruits can offer a cooling effect when something spicy is consumed. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are high in vitamin C and can help calm fiery taste buds.

Watermelon and pineapple are also effective at providing relief due to their high water content.

Yogurt

As mentioned, yogurt is a dairy-based product that can cool down spice. However, it specifically contains probiotics (good bacteria) that coat the tongue and provide a reprieve from the burn.

The live and active cultures in yogurt are also beneficial for digestion.

Ginger

Ginger is a root with anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe inflammation caused by spicy food. It can be consumed both raw and cooked, but most commonly it is used in tea form. Drinking ginger tea after a spicy meal can help reduce discomfort.

Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that can help neutralize the heat of spicy food. It coats the tongue and can ease the burning sensation. Additionally, honey has antibacterial properties and is packed with antioxidants.

Conclusion

Spicy food can be uncomfortable for some, but there are plenty of foods and drinks that can provide relief. Dairy products, carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, yogurt, ginger, and honey are all excellent options to combat the heat of spicy food.

Experiment with your favorite foods to find the best solution for your taste buds.