When earthquakes don't behave as expected, how being a perfectionist can harm your health, and why you should be eating more spicy foods. All topics on today's LabNotes, our regular look at scientific discoveries with resident science geek Sanden Totten. 

Earthquakes

Scientists have solved the mystery of the balancing rocks near the San Andreas fault. These rocks have never been topped by earthquakes. Reason why is that quakes can stop or jump because of interactions between the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault. 

Downside to perfectionism

Being a perfectionist can sabotage success at work and school, lead to stress and cause health problems. That’s according to a recent study published in the Society for Personality and Social Psychology. Constantly worrying about letting others down, making mistakes or not meeting personal high standards  can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders and even early mortality. 

But being a perfectionist isn’t all bad. Researchers analyzed findings from previous studies which found that setting high personal standards and working toward those goals help maintain a sense of accomplishment. 

Benefits of spicy foods

How much jalapeño should I be eating? That answer is not yet clear. Researchers conducted an observational study which suggests that regular consumption of spicy foods is linked to lower risk of death. 

Previous research has suggested that spies include anti-obesity, antioxidant and anticancer properties. But the authors are calling for more research that may “lead to updated dietary recommendations.”