Stop Burning Your Mouth: Use Orange Instead of Milk for Spicy Food Relief

### 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.