Can Ice Cream and Cold Treats Really Cool You Down? Let’s Debunk This Myth

In the scorching heat of summer, reaching for a refreshing scoop of ice cream or a chilled popsicle seems like a natural instinct. After all, we've been told that indulging in these cold treats can help us beat the heat and cool down. But is there any truth to this common belief, or are we simply buying into a myth? Read ahead as we explore the science behind whether cooling yourself down with ice cream and cold treats is truly effective.

Myth or Fact? Here’s Our Verdict

While it's true that consuming cold treats can provide temporary relief from the heat by offering a refreshing sensation, it's essential to recognize the limitations of this cooling method. Ice cream and cold treats may offer psychological comfort and enjoyment, but they're not a scientifically proven way to lower body temperature or combat heat-related discomfort.

The Reality of Cooling Down

Contrary to popular belief, consuming cold treats like ice cream or popsicles doesn't actually lower your body temperature. While these treats might provide a temporary sensation of coolness in your mouth and throat, they don't have a significant impact on your overall body temperature. In fact, the body's core temperature remains largely unaffected by ingesting cold foods.

This is because the cooling sensation experienced is primarily due to the stimulation of cold receptors in the mouth and throat, rather than an actual decrease in body temperature. As a result, while you may feel momentarily refreshed after indulging in a cold treat, it's important to recognize that the effect is short-lived and does not result in a lasting change in body temperature.

How to Keep Cool During Summer

Sweating is a vital component of your body's cooling mechanism. When sweat evaporates from the skin's surface, it absorbs heat from the body, resulting in a cooling effect. However, consuming cold treats doesn't stimulate sweating or enhance evaporative cooling. Instead, the body's response to cold food intake primarily involves adjusting blood flow to maintain internal temperature stability.

So, here are things you can do instead. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to regulate your body temperature. Find shade outdoors to reduce exposure to direct sunlight and lower ambient temperature. Carry handheld fans, misting fans, or cooling towels for instant relief. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cooler in hot weather. Refresh yourself with cool showers or baths to lower body temperature. Plan outdoor activities for cooler times of the day to avoid overheating. You can also opt for lighter, refreshing meals to avoid increasing metabolic heat production.