Stating that ice cream is known as the indispensable dessert of the summer months, Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist Opr. Dr. Ali Rıza Gökduman said, “It is necessary to take into consideration some important points about the consumption of ice cream, which has won the love of people of all ages with its refreshing and delicious structure, and its effects on health.”
“DO NOT LET REFRESHING PLEASURE TURN INTO A HEALTH RISK”
Noting that ice cream has a cooling effect thanks to its high water content, Opr. Dr. Ali Rıza Gökduman said, “It can be preferred to compensate for the water lost by the body, especially in hot weather. However, there are some points to be careful about when consuming ice cream. Consuming very cold ice cream can suddenly create a cold shock in the throat, which can pave the way for throat infections. Therefore, it is important to consume ice cream slowly and in small bites.”
“IT IS IMPORTANT TO DRINK WARM WATER FOR THROAT HEALTH”
Emphasizing that one of the most important points to consider when consuming ice cream is the amount, Opr. Dr. Gökduman said, “Instead of drinking cold water immediately after ice cream, drinking room temperature water would be more appropriate for throat health. Drinking cold water after cold ice cream can cause sudden temperature changes in the throat, which can lead to irritation in the throat.”
“5 HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT ICE CREAM CONSUMPTION MAY CAUSE”
Opr. Dr. Gökduman said the following about the illnesses that may arise directly or indirectly from ice cream consumption: “Pharyngitis (Throat inflammation): There is no direct evidence that cold foods trigger pharyngitis, but people with strep throat may be bothered by cold foods. Ice cream can make pharyngitis symptoms more pronounced.
Tonsillitis (Inflammation of the tonsils): Ice cream and other cold foods can worsen symptoms in people with tonsillitis, which can manifest as increased pain and difficulty swallowing.
Cold and flu: Ice cream itself does not directly cause colds or flu, as these diseases are caused by viruses. However, in people with weakened immune systems, consuming cold foods can cause discomfort in some people and increase their susceptibility to infection.
Throat irritation: Cold foods, especially ice cream, can irritate the throat in some people. This can make a sore throat worse or make an existing throat infection more uncomfortable.
Mucus production: “Dairy products can increase mucus production in some people. The increased mucus can cause throat discomfort and worsen symptoms of cough or congestion.”
“BE CAREFUL ABOUT THE RISK OF INFECTION AND COLD”
Gökduıman, who said that ice cream can be a pleasant and refreshing dessert when consumed correctly and in reasonable amounts, said, “However, people with health problems such as throat infections and colds should be careful about ice cream consumption. While enjoying ice cream, do not forget to protect your health. With slow and controlled consumption, you can enjoy both coolness and health.” (İHA)