Food & Drink

# Tips from Reddit's LifeProTips **Eat Medjool dates to satisfy sugar cravings** Medjool dates are a delicious and healthy alternative to desserts. They taste like caramel and effectively curb sugar cravings without the processed sugars found in many sweets. Rich in magnesium, copper, selenium, B6, and other nutrients, they offer a nutritious way to indulge. **Key insights:** - A single Medjool date contains about 66.5 calories and 16g of sugars, mainly glucose and fructose. - They do not contain processed sugar, making them a better option than refined sweets like chocolate bars. - Unlike processed sugar, natural sugars in dates are metabolized more slowly, helping prevent sugar crashes and blood sugar spikes. - Eating dates provides additional nutrients and fiber, supporting overall health and stable metabolism. - While dates are high in natural sugar, they are a healthier choice for satisfying cravings compared to processed snacks that offer "empty calories."

### Tips for Relieving Spicy Food Heat - Eating a small orange (like a Cutie) can help calm ghost pepper pain with just half an orange. - Citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, lime, and even tomato are acidic enough to counteract the alkaline capsaicin in spicy foods. - Orange juice changes pH balance; its acidity can neutralize capsaicin, especially when using small citrus fruits. - Milk contains casein, which helps to neutralize capsaicin's effect. However, some people find milk less effective for certain spicy foods. - Lip balm or heavy lip balm can prevent capsaicin from being absorbed through the lips' mucosal membranes; applying it beforehand is better. - Avoid getting spicy foods on your lips and face, as mucosal membranes are more sensitive. - Additional approaches include using pulpy orange juice or apple cider vinegar, both highly acidic, which might help neutralize the burn. - Capsaicin is lipid-soluble; foods containing fats, like milk or peanut butter, can also help reduce heat. - Remember, increasing temperature or contact with lips can worsen the sensation. - Some find that eating spicy foods is best enjoyed without trying to neutralize the heat, but test and find what works best for you.