Refreshing chills eluding during scorching heat?
In the sweltering heat of summer, the choice between a refreshing iced drink and a comforting hot beverage can be a dilemma. Both options have their merits, but understanding the impact they have on the body can help make a more informed decision.
When it comes to hot drinks, like tea in warm countries, they are often consumed slowly and in small sips. This leisurely consumption pattern reduces the body's challenge to balance temperature, making it a more comfortable option during hot days. Interestingly, hot drinks can also induce sweating, which cools the body down through evaporation.
On the other hand, iced drinks offer an immediate cooling effect and hydration on hot days. However, they may cause temporary throat irritation or digestion slowdown in some individuals. From the perspective of medical experts, ice-cold drinks can potentially upset the stomach, leading to irritations up to diarrhea.
One important factor to consider is the process of warming up the iced drinks. Warming up ice-cold drinks costs fluid, as the body sweats more in the process, which could lead to dehydration.
Ivo Grebe, an internist, emphasises the potential stomach-upsetting effects of iced drinks, stating, "Ice-cold drinks can potentially upset the stomach, leading to irritations up to diarrhea."
In conclusion, while both hot and iced drinks have their benefits and drawbacks, it's essential to choose the one that suits your body's needs best. If you prefer a hot drink, opt for a lukewarm to slightly cooled option to minimise the body's temperature adjustment. For those who crave iced drinks, ensure to drink them slowly and mindfully to avoid potential stomach discomfort. Staying hydrated and aware of your body's response to different beverages is key to enjoying your summer days comfortably.
Science highlights that hot drinks, such as tea in warm countries, are consumed slowly, reducing the body's strain to regulate temperature and potentially inducing sweating for cooling. On the contrary, iced drinks provide an immediate coolness and hydration but can cause temporary throat irritation, slow down digestion, upset the stomach, and potentially lead to diarrhea, as highlighted in health-and-wellness discussions. Fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts and nutrition specialists recommend mindful consumption to avoid the potential stomach discomfort from iced drinks and to enjoy the cooling effect from nutrient-rich beverages during summer.
