Is Eating Ice Cream In Cold Weather Bad, Expert Explains

When the temperature drops, most people reach for hot chocolate, soups and warm desserts, but there’s always that ice cream craving that refuses to go away. However, whenever you scoop one out, there’s always a familiar voice that says, don’t eat ice cream, you’ll catch a cold! However, is this belief truly backed by science, or is it just another winter myth? We asked our expert to explain whether enjoying ice cream in cold weather is actually bad for your health. Here is what she shared with us.

Does Ice Cream Cause a Cold? 

The most common myth about winter ice cream is that it leads to colds, sore throats, or respiratory infections. However, Pooja, Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, pointed out that neither cold weather nor cold foods initiates infections themselves.

"A cold or flu happens because of viruses, not the temperature of your food," she explained.

That means one does not necessarily get sick from consuming ice cream. But some people are more sensitive to cold foods, especially when there is already nasal congestion or a weakened immune system. In such cases, the cold temperature might temporarily constrict blood vessels in the throat and cause discomfort or further irritation. But a bowl of ice cream isn't likely to create any problems for a healthy person.

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Can Ice Cream Trigger a Throat Infection?

One of the few common problems is that ice cream builds up mucus in your body. Actually, it does not produce mucus, but it may thicken the existing mucus and make your throat feel clogged.

Pooja shared, “If someone is already down with a cold, eating anything chilled can intensify throat discomfort, but it isn’t the cause of the illness.”

Children, people with asthma, and individuals susceptible to sinus problems might feel a bit more discomfort due to cold foods. However, this depends on each individual.

Surprising Benefits of Eating Ice Cream in Winter

According to experts, eating ice cream in winter may be counterintuitive. Here's why:

1. Better Digestion

Heat usually reduces appetite and also slows digestion. During winter, the body needs to burn more calories to maintain warmth, and ice cream helps in digestion, making the process much smoother. A moderate treat of your favourite ice cream may feel easier on the stomach compared to summer.

2. Mood Boosting Properties

Ice cream is loaded with sugar and fat, both of which activate the release of dopamine, a feel-good hormone. Shorter days and less sunlight have an impact on mood, and a small serving may give an instant emotional boost.

3. Energy from Calorie Support

Cold weather increases energy expenditure. A moderate indulgence can support this without causing harm as long as portion sizes are controlled.

Who Should Avoid Ice Cream During Cold Weather?

Pooja added that some people may still want to steer clear of them. These include:

• People with chronic sinusitis
• People with sore throats, tonsillitis, or active infections
• People with respiratory allergies or asthma triggers
• Anyone with lactose intolerance or sensitivity to dairy

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For this set of group, it is best to avoid or limit the intake of cold desserts so as not to irritate the throat or cause discomfort.

Tips to Enjoy Ice Cream Smartly This Winter

Here are some expert-approved ways to smartly enjoy ice cream this winter season:

• Choose healthier options like sorbets, frozen yoghurt, or low-sugar varieties.
• Try to avoid having ice cream just after coming from outside in the cold, let your body warm up first.
• Try pairing it with something warm, like a hot brownie or warm fruit, to balance out the temperature difference.
• Only take small portions to enjoy the treat and not be overloaded with sugar.

Bottomline

Eating ice cream in winter is not bad. It does not cause colds but can worsen throat irritation if one is already sick. For most healthy individuals, consumption in moderation is perfectly fine.