In your culture, is spicy food associated with masculinity? Does ordering the hottest thing on the menu make you more of a man?
A new study has revealed that men who like spicier foods have higher levels of testosterone. So basically, men who love spicy Indian curry are more manly - they have qualities traditionally ascribed to men, such as strength or bravery!
Researchers at University of Grenoble have published a report which suggests that men who eat spicy food regularly are likely to see an increase in testosterone levels. Testosterone levels affect everything in men from the reproductive system and sexuality to muscle mass and bone density. Greater quantities of testosterone are linked to characteristics that define the typical “alpha” male, e.g. aggression and recklessness.
The study approached 114 men aged between 18 and 44 who were asked to add hot pepper sauce and salt to mashed potatoes before evaluating the spiciness of the meal. The effect of hot peppers on women has yet to be studied.