Can eating spicy food help relieve a bad mood?
Nov 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, whether eating spicy food can relieve a bad mood depends on one's emotional state and how it is consumed. For occasional mild low moods, moderate consumption of spicy food might provide temporary relief. However, for prolonged feelings of depression or frequent reliance on spicy food, it not only fails to address the root cause but may also lead to physical discomfort. Healthier methods are recommended for regulating emotions, such as regular exercise, talking with family or friends, listening to soothing music, or taking walks outdoors.
Generally speaking, whether eating spicy food can alleviate a bad mood depends on one's emotional state and the way it is consumed. In cases of occasional mild low mood, moderate consumption of spicy food may provide temporary relief; however, for persistent feelings of depression or frequent reliance on spicy food, not only will it fail to fundamentally improve emotional well-being, but it may also cause physical discomfort. The detailed analysis is as follows:
When feeling irritable or down due to minor issues, consuming a moderate amount of spicy food can help. Capsaicin in chili peppers stimulates the brain to release endorphins, creating a brief sense of pleasure. It can also divert attention and temporarily lessen negative emotions, making it suitable for mild and short-term mood fluctuations.
If someone is experiencing long-term depression, anxiety, or more serious emotional issues, eating spicy food only provides a temporary numbing effect and does not address the underlying causes. Excessive consumption may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to stomach pain, internal heat, or other discomforts, which could make the body feel worse and further加重 emotional distress. In such cases, relying on spicy food for relief is not recommended.
Healthier methods are recommended for regulating emotions, such as regular exercise, talking with family or friends, listening to soothing music, or taking walks outdoors. Occasionally enjoying spicy food to refresh the palate is fine, but intake should be controlled to avoid bodily irritation.
