Nelson Cheney, also known as „@craving_capsaicin“ on TikTok, has built a following of 1.1 million people by consuming extremely spicy peppers and sauces. His love for spicy foods started when he was a child, trying to impress his dad, and has now turned into a passion that he shares with his online community. Cheney describes the adrenaline rush he feels when eating spicy foods as a way of life, comparing it to winning a race. This thrill-seeking behavior is not unique to him, as many people are drawn to extreme foods for the perceived danger and the rush of endorphins and dopamine released by the brain.
According to Elisa Trucco, a researcher at Florida International University, individuals who seek out extreme food challenges often have sensation-seeking and reward-seeking behaviors. The experience of eating spicy or sour foods triggers a fight-or-flight response in the brain, leading to a sense of accomplishment once the perceived danger has passed. Both sour and spicy foods generate painful responses in the body, activating different nerves. While the initial pain reaction can be overridden by the brain, eating extreme foods can still be perceived as a health threat.
The pleasure derived from consuming spicy or sour foods comes from overcoming the body’s signals of pain and danger. Paul Rozin, a psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania, explains that the brain’s ability to differentiate between serious and benign pain contributes to the enjoyment of extreme food challenges. Additionally, filming these challenges for social media can trigger a dopamine release, reinforcing the behavior through likes and follows.
Despite the feel-good hormones associated with extreme food challenges, there have been instances of backlash due to the potential dangers involved. Last year, a teen in Massachusetts died after attempting a spicy chip challenge, and a 10-year-old girl in the U.K. suffered burns in her throat from eating supersour candy. Dr. Edwin McDonald, a gastroenterologist, warns that while moderate consumption of spicy and sour foods can have health benefits, extreme spice could lead to a hospital visit. Dr. Chantel Strachan advises individuals with underlying medical conditions to be cautious and consult a doctor before participating in extreme food challenges.
Children and teens are particularly susceptible to social media challenges, making it crucial for parents to be aware of the risks involved. Trucco emphasizes the importance of having open conversations with children about the potential dangers of extreme food challenges. While consuming spicy and sour foods in moderation can be safe and even beneficial, it is essential to approach extreme food challenges with caution and awareness of one’s own limits.
