Can patients with oral ulcers eat spicy hot pot?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, whether patients with oral ulcers can eat spicy hot pot depends on the severity of their condition. It is usually not recommended to consume spicy hot pot during an active outbreak of oral ulcers. However, if the ulcers have completely healed, small amounts may be consumed. To promote healing and reduce recurrence, it is important to maintain a light diet in daily life, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, and avoid excessively hot, spicy, or irritating foods.

Generally speaking, whether patients with oral ulcers can eat spicy hot pot depends on the condition of the ulcer. It is usually not recommended to consume spicy hot pot during an active outbreak of oral ulcers; however, if the ulcer has completely healed, small amounts may be consumed. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If oral ulcers are currently in the acute phase, with exposed wounds and noticeable pain, the high temperature of spicy hot pot can directly irritate the lesion, worsening discomfort. Meanwhile, spicy ingredients such as chili peppers and Sichuan pepper in the hot pot further stimulate the oral mucosa, increasing redness and swelling of the ulcer, prolonging healing time, and potentially causing new mucosal damage.

When the oral ulcer has fully healed and the oral mucosa has returned to normal, consuming a small amount of spicy hot pot may be acceptable. However, it is advisable to choose a mild broth, reduce the amount of spicy seasonings, and avoid excessive consumption to prevent overstimulation of the oral mucosa and lower the risk of ulcer recurrence.

To promote healing and reduce recurrence of oral ulcers, maintain a light diet in daily life, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, and avoid excessively hot, spicy, or irritating foods. Rinse your mouth with warm water after meals to keep the mouth clean, which helps support oral recovery.

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