For years, doctors have believed that spicy foods could cause ulcers in the stomach or small intestine. But a recent study suggests that, on the contrary, spicy foods might actually help relieve ulcers.

Berkeley Wellness reports on the new research from India, which found that “capsaicin (the ‘hot’ element in chili peppers) can actually stimulate secretions in the stomach that help prevent and even help heal ulcers.”

The post notes that most ulcers are actually a result of bacteria. Other factors that can lead to ulcers include chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, as well as smoking and stress.

If you have an ulcer and spicy foods cause you pain, you should still avoid them. Otherwise, if you like a little heat, here’s one less thing to worry about!