BLACKPINK Rosé Shares Her Love for 'This One' K-Food She Just Can’t Give Up—and Why (Health)

Rosé, a member of BLACKPINK, recently shared her love for Korea's famous spicy ramen, 'Buldak Bokkeum Myeon', during a segment on the YouTube channel LADbible Entertainment.

The video, titled "Rosé Rates British and Korean Snacks | Snack Wars," featured her comparing popular snacks from the UK and Korea, including chips, dumplings, hot dogs, and ramen. While enjoying Buldak Bokkeum Myeon, Rosé reminisced, "There was a time when I was obsessed with this. After a performance, I even ate three different kinds in one sitting." She added, "It’s so painful to eat it all, but it’s just so delicious."

Rosé also explained Korea's cultural perspective on spicy food, "In Korea, people say spicy food helps relieve stress. That’s why many people turn to it after work to unwind." Science backs this claim, as eating spicy food activates the sympathetic nervous system, which responds to perceived stress or threats. This reaction increases sweating, heart rate, and metabolism. Moreover, the body releases endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones, to counteract the perceived pain caused by the spiciness. These endorphins not only alleviate pain but also elevate adrenaline levels, creating a sense of happiness and relief.

Despite its benefits, spicy food can harm digestive health. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat, may irritate the stomach lining and weaken the valve between the stomach and esophagus, leading to indigestion and heartburn. Prolonged exposure to capsaicin can reduce the activity of natural killer cells, which fight cancer, potentially increasing the risk of stomach cancer. Additionally, spicy and salty foods often contain high levels of sodium, leading to water retention, bloating, and even obesity. Sodium draws water out of blood vessels, reducing hydration and increasing water buildup in cells. A study by Queen Mary University of London revealed that for every extra gram of salt consumed daily, the likelihood of weight gain increases by over 20%.

Reducing sodium consumption can be as simple as cutting back on processed and restaurant-prepared foods. Avoiding high-sodium items like cured meats, chips, soups, and ramen can help. Opting for home-cooked meals and fresh ingredients is a healthier way to enjoy your favorite flavors without the added risks. Rosé's love for spicy ramen resonates with many fans, highlighting both the joys and the health considerations of indulging in spicy foods.