ENT specialist warns: “Don’t let the joy of ice cream spoil your taste during the hot summer days.”

Otolaryngologist Opr. Dr. Ali Rıza Gökduman, who warns about ice cream consumption, stated, “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.”

Stating that ice cream is known as the indispensable dessert of the summer months, VM Medical Park Samsun Hospital Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist Opr. Dr. Ali Rıza Gökduman said, “With its refreshing and delicious nature, it is important to consider some key points regarding the consumption of ice cream and its effects on health.”

“Let not refreshing pleasure turn into health risks”

Pointing out that ice cream has a refreshing effect due to its high water content, Opr. Dr. Ali Rıza Gökduman noted, “It can be preferred to compensate for the water lost by the body, especially in hot weather. However, there are some points to be cautious 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.”

“Drinking warm water is important for throat health”

Emphasizing that one of the most important points to pay attention to while consuming ice cream is the quantity, Opr. Dr. Gökduman stated, “Instead of drinking cold water immediately after ice cream, drinking water at room temperature would be more suitable 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 issues that ice cream consumption can lead to”

Opr. Dr. Gökduman mentioned the discomforts that can arise directly or indirectly from ice cream consumption: “Pharyngitis (throat inflammation): There is no direct evidence that cold foods trigger pharyngitis, but people with throat inflammation may be disturbed by cold foods. Ice cream can make the symptoms of pharyngitis more pronounced. Tonsillitis (tonsil inflammation): Ice cream and other cold foods can worsen the symptoms in individuals with tonsillitis. This can manifest as increased pain and difficulty swallowing. Cold and flu: Ice cream itself does not directly cause colds or flu, as these illnesses are caused by viruses. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, the consumption of cold foods may cause discomfort in some people and increase susceptibility to infection. Throat irritation: Cold foods, especially ice cream, can cause irritation in the throat for some individuals. This can exacerbate throat pain or make an existing throat infection more uncomfortable. Mucus production: Dairy products can increase mucus production in some people. Increased mucus can lead to discomfort in the throat and worsen symptoms of coughing or congestion.”

“Be cautious of infection and cold risks”

Stating that ice cream can be a pleasurable and refreshing dessert when consumed properly and in reasonable amounts, Gökduman emphasized, “However, individuals with health issues such as throat infections and colds should be cautious about ice cream consumption. While enjoying ice cream, do not forget to protect your health. With slow and controlled consumption, you can enjoy both the coolness and your health.”