I have red, itchy bumps on my body. Can I eat spicy food?

Aug 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, when experiencing itchy red bumps on the skin, it is usually not recommended to eat spicy foods. Spicy ingredients such as chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, and ginger should temporarily be avoided; instead, opt for light and easily digestible foods, and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits to supplement vitamins. At the same time, keep the skin clean, wear loose and breathable clothing, and reduce friction and irritation to the skin.

Generally, when red bumps appear on the skin accompanied by itching, consuming spicy food is usually not recommended. The detailed explanation is as follows:


Red bumps accompanied by itching are often related to skin inflammation, allergic reactions, insect bites, or similar conditions. At this time, the skin is in a sensitive state, with local vasodilation and active inflammatory factors. Spicy foods contain irritating ingredients such as capsaicin, which can further dilate skin blood vessels, intensify the inflammatory response, make the red bumps more noticeable, and worsen the itching. This may also prolong the duration of symptoms. Additionally, spicy foods may affect bodily metabolism and interfere with the immune system's regulation of the sensitive state, thus hindering skin recovery.

To support healing, spicy ingredients such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and ginger should temporarily be avoided in the diet. Instead, opt for bland, easily digestible foods, and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits to supplement vitamins. At the same time, maintain skin cleanliness, wear loose and breathable clothing, and minimize skin friction and irritation.