We are back this week, and going to be better than ever, currently working on subscription only content (however this will always remain open for everyone to read), as well as cleaning up/updating our recipe section to add a little more content.  But let’s move on to the topic of this week, SPICE TOLERANCE.  As we know from the past, I have a huge love, obsession, and wide knowledge of all things with heat. So, this week, I wanted to take a look at why some people can tolerate spice, and why some can’t.

To begin, spice tolerance refers to an individual’s ability to handle the heat or burning sensation caused by spicy foods, primarily due to what we all know from my past articles is capsaicin, found in chili peppers. This tolerance varies widely among people and is influenced by several key factors: such as biological and genetic factors.

These factors include

1. Capsaicin Receptors (TRPV1 gene): Some people are genetically predisposed to have fewer or less sensitive capsaicin receptors, making them less reactive to spicy foods.

2. Taste Bud Density: Individuals with more taste buds may experience spiciness more intensely.

3. Trigeminal Nerve Sensitivity: This nerve detects pain and temperature in the mouth. Variations in its sensitivity can affect how spicy food feels.

Then there is the environmental and cultural exposure that can increase a person’s tolerance.  In general, children raised in cultures with spicy cuisines (e.g., Mexican, Indian, Thai) often develop higher tolerance due to regular exposure. Or you have people/children like me, who are desensitized, which is where repeated exposure to capsaicin can dull the nerve endings in the mouth overtime reducing the sensitivity.

However, that is not all about spice tolerance, there are personality and psychological traits that can help one to have a high tolerance.  You have the thrill seeker, someone who wants intense experience is more likely to love spicy foods.  Then there are also those who have positive associations with spicy foods, whether it’s cultural or social will increase enjoyment and tolerance.

Now the question of all questions with spice tolerance, if you cannot handle it (and want to be able too), is that you can increase your tolerance? And the answer is ABSOLUTELY mostly through desensitization.