Despite worrying claims made against hot and spicy foods, your favorite restaurant keeps the option on its menu—why? Well, it just might be because what you’ve known to be true all along are just misconceptions. To help you separate fact from fiction, here’s the truth behind some of the popular myths about fiery food.

3 Things About Spicy Food That Aren’t True

1. Eating Spicy Food Leads to Ulcers

What probably brought about this belief is the fact that spicy food can sometimes cause diarrhea and stomach pain. As a result, people—not excluding doctors—began to believe that this eventually leads to ulcers. However, it has already been discovered that NSAIDs, or a specific bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, were often to blame for ulcers. One study has claimed that the compound capsaicin found in chili peppers actually protects the body from the pathogen. So, the next time you are tempted to try an enticing spicy dish at a restaurant, go ahead and give in to your cravings.

2. Spicy Food Induces Labor

Although this myth has been going around for quite some time, there is not enough evidence to support the claim that eating spicy foods will induce labor for pregnant women. The stomach and the uterus are not directly connected, so it’s hard to justify that ingesting hot food will cause labor to start. Nevertheless, some women indulge in spicy foods while pregnant in an attempt to speed up childbirth.

3. Spicy Food Kills Taste Buds

This is again one of those false claims that make diners think twice about ordering spicy dishes at a restaurant. While it’s true that capsaicin seems to burn your mouth and make it go numb, your taste buds will remain intact. The numbness that accompanies ingestion of spicy food is just your body’s defensive response against capsaicin. Keep in mind that this feeling is only temporary and shouldn’t persist for more than a day.

For a dining experience that offers unusual and intense flavors, visit Sufi Kitchen in Atlanta, GA. This highly-rated Persian restaurant will treat you to fine dining services that will make you keep coming back for more. Call them today at (404) 888-9699 to make your reservations, or visit their website for more information.