Why Does Alcohol Burn When You Drink It?

The video explains why alcohol feels hot when consumed, not due to its temperature but because it interacts with VR1 receptors in the mouth and throat. These receptors, which usually detect heat, are made more sensitive by ethanol, lowering their activation threshold. This makes normal body temperature feel like burning. Capsaicin, found in spicy foods, also affects these receptors but activates them directly. The video concludes that the burning sensation is due to the body's response, not the alcohol's temperature.

Explain the difference between how capsaicin and ethanol interact with heat receptors.

Why might your body temperature feel like it's burning after consuming alcohol?