Why cold drinks don't cool your body like you think?

Cold drinks don't actually cool the body as you think. Graphics: Ha May

Cold water can slow down the digestive system.

The summer heat makes us all crave for a cool drink to cool down. But Dr Charu Dua, Head of Clinical Nutrition at Amrita Hospital (India), says that cold drinks may not be the best option for the hot season. She shares some refreshing alternatives to help you feel great in the harsh weather conditions.

According to Dr. Charu Dua, ice cold water can slow down your digestive system. This is because your body works to maintain its core temperature, using energy to warm up the cold drink, which slows down the digestive process in your body.

The Truth About Sugary Cold Drinks

Cold drinks with sugar are like empty sugar sacks, they don’t really quench your thirst or provide any nutrients to your body. It’s better to choose drinks that keep you hydrated and closer to your body temperature, Charu Dua says. Here are some great options:

Water: Water is essential for hydration and contains no added sugar or calories.

Coconut water: A natural source of electrolytes, ideal for replenishing fluids lost through sweat.

Buttermilk: A probiotic drink that aids digestion and keeps the body cool.

Unsweetened Fruit Tea: Enjoy the fruity flavor with minimal sugar in your tea.

Don't focus on the temperature of the drink.

Dr. Charu Dua advises against focusing on the temperature of the beverage to cool down. Our bodies regulate temperature regardless of what we consume. What really matters is hydration (replenishing the water lost through sweat during exercise ).

Control your intake of cold drinks

Dr Charu Dua advises that moderation is key. According to the latest dietary guidelines, less than 5% of your daily calories should come from added sugars. Water and other fluids have no calories, so you should make these your priority.

Also, if you can control your intake of cold drinks, it won't cause much harm. However, Dr. Charu Dua recommends prioritizing healthier options for your daily hydration.

“Cold drinks can be a refreshing addition to your summer routine, but to really beat the heat, you need to take a holistic approach. By learning about your body’s ability to regulate temperature and applying these techniques, you can stay cool and comfortable even on the hottest days,” says Charu Dua.

Source: https://laodong.vn/suc-khoe/vi-sao-do-uong-lanh-khong-lam-mat-co-the-nhu-ban-van-nghi-1365731.ldo