Korean food and other spicy fare give your metabolism a boost while reducing bodily inflammation and bacteria levels, among other health benefits, making it a welcome addition to any diet. If you want to consume more spicy food but don’t want to set fire to your mouth, review these tips before your next takeout order or restaurant visit.

How to Handle Spicy Food Successfully

1. Don’t Consume Spicy Fare on an Empty Stomach

Avoid stomach pains by eating a light meal before consuming spicy Korean food. Eat bland fare that digests slowly, such as oatmeal or whole wheat toast.

Also, have bland, starchy, textured food available when you're eating spicy meals to absorb capsaicin, the compound in hot foods that gives them their spice. Crackers, rice, and bread all work well in mitigating the burn.

2. Eat Slowly

Consume your favorite Korean food slowly to avoid bombarding your body with capsaicin and subsequently having a stronger reaction. Steady eating allows your body to get used to the capsaicin, so you don’t start sweating profusely. If your stomach starts hurting, ask for a doggy bag to fully enjoy the meal the following day. 

3. Reduce the Spice

Compensate for spice with ice-cold beverages such as water or iced tea. Cold liquid keeps your mouth from getting too hot by numbing your taste buds.

Also, consume dairy products and acidic foods while you’re eating spicy fare since both feature compounds that neutralize the heat. 

4. Increase Your Tolerance

Focus on building your tolerance instead of jumping in right away and possibly giving yourself heartburn. Start by adding spicy condiments to favorite dishes, then enjoying spicy food as sides.

Try to stick to milder peppers that don’t feature the same heat level as jalapenos, such as cubanelles and poblanos, when possible. 

Enjoy Korean food at Seoul Tofu House to add spice to your life. The locally owned restaurant serves lunch and dinner as well as takeout to hungry residents throughout Honolulu, HI. Menu items include Korean barbecue and their specialty soondubu. Call (808) 376-0018 today for information about specials, or review more menu selections online. Get the latest restaurant updates on Facebook.