A little too hot? What to do
If you like hot dishes but exceed your tolerance, taking a swig of milk can counter the “mouth on fire” sensation. Ice cream, cheese, and yogurt are effective, too. Other remedies that help, but less so, include eating some carbohydrates like bread and sugar. But don’t count on alcohol or water: They’ll just spread the capsaicin (the primary substance that gives chilis their heat) through your mouth.