Women fancy men more after eating spicy food

*Delicacy may curb unhealthy cravings for salt, leading to lower blood pressure

Acurry house is probably not the first place you would think about going on your first date. But research suggests that going out for a chicken peppersoup could actually boost your chances of love.

Scientists found women fancy men more after eating spicy food - and were more likely to be interested in pursuing a relationship.

The St Cloud State University in Minnesota study showed women who had spicy food found men one fifth better-looking. However, the scientists found the opposite effect from sweet treats - because of an unconscious association in the brain. They said that because words to describe spicy food, such as hot, is a common term to describe someone being attractive.

This supposedly helps to solidify thoughts about affection, and potentially pursuing a romantic relationship, the team wrote.

Jenni Miska, lead researcher, published the findings in Psi Chi and said “embodied cognition” - when sensations affect thoughts - was to blame.

The academics wrote said: “A spicy flavour was found to increase romantic interest as well as physical attractiveness ratings.

“It supports the suggestion that sensory experiences, in this case taste, can influence cognitive perceptions regarding potential relationships.”

Researchers made the conclusion after assessing data from 87 women who were either given sweet, spicy or bland snacks, the Sun reports.

The sweet group were given four Oreo cookies and the bland group had eight Lay’s Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips.

While those in the spicy condition were given Cheetos Crunchy Cheddar Jalapeño Cheese - because it wasn't unbearably hot.