Uploads from Ethan Chlebowski

Currently Playing: Why do people like spicy food?

A lot of people love spicy food…but have you ever wondered why? Because technically, spicy isn’t really a taste or smell, it’s a physical reaction. Capsaicin, the compound found in many chili peppers, binds to pain receptors on the lips, tongue, which makes your brain think your mouth is on fire, but it also quickly realizes, we’re actually safe. Uh our mouth is on fire right now…but then it also quickly realizes. Oh we’re actually safe. So eating spicy food becomes this kind of weird controlled stress experience. Your body can start to sweat, the heart rate elevates, but it can also release endorphins that give you an after spice glow. In the right amounts, spiciness makes food feel vibrant, exciting, and addictive so you want to keep eating another bite, but you need to be careful.