Eating spicy food is often seen as a sign of male bravado - and now scientific research has found that men who enjoy hot food have higher levels of testosterone. Scientist at the University of Grenoble found a positive correlation between an enjoyment of spicy food and levels of the hormone. Greater quantities of testosterone are linked to characteristics that define the typical “alpha” male, such as aggression, recklessness and a high sex drive. Co-author Laurent Begue told the Telegraph: “These results are in line with a lot of research showing a link between testosterone and financial, sexual and behavioural risk-taking.” Professor Laurent Begue, who led the study, said: 'We demonstrated a positive correlation between salivary testosterone and the quantity of hot sauce male participants voluntarily and spontaneously consumed with a male. 'Additionally, testosterone levels correlated with participants' perceptions of the spiciness of their meal after a tasting task. 'This study provides new insights into the biology of food preference by expanding our understanding of the link between hormonal processes and food intake.'
Source: Dilymail., Telegraph