Why Cold Drinks With Meals Should Be Avoided

One dietary consideration that often goes unnoticed is the consumption of cold drinks with meals. While it may seem harmless, research suggests that avoiding or minimizing the intake of cold drinks during mealtime can offer several benefits. They can slow down the process of digestion and should be avoided for several reasons:

Impact on Enzymatic Activity: Digestion involves the breakdown of food into smaller particles with the help of digestive enzymes. Cold drinks, especially icy ones, can lower the temperature in the stomach and interfere with optimal enzymatic activity. Enzymes responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins work more efficiently at warmer temperatures. When the temperature drops due to the consumption of cold beverages, the enzymatic activity can be compromised, leading to slower digestion.

Constriction of Blood Vessels: Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict or narrow. This constriction reduces blood flow to the digestive system, including the stomach and intestines. Insufficient blood supply to the digestive organs can hamper the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for optimal digestion. As a result, the digestive process becomes sluggish, leading to delayed emptying of the stomach and slower movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract.

Effects on Gastric Motility: The temperature of the beverages we consume can influence gastric motility, which refers to the movement of food through the stomach. Cold drinks can reduce the rate of gastric emptying, as evidenced by a study published in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility. This delayed gastric emptying can lead to feelings of bloating, discomfort, and slowed digestion.

Reduced Muscle Contractions: Proper digestion relies on coordinated muscle contractions in the gastrointestinal tract, known as peristalsis. Peristalsis helps propel food through the digestive system. Cold temperatures can negatively impact muscle function, including the smooth muscles in the stomach and intestines. This can lead to weaker and slower muscle contractions, further delaying the digestion process.

Impaired Nutrient Absorption: Cold drinks can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the food we consume. The cold temperature can affect the integrity and permeability of the intestinal lining, which plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption. When the intestinal lining is affected, the absorption of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, may be compromised. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and suboptimal health outcomes.

If You Are Managing The Following Health Conditions:

  • Impact on Blood Sugar Control in Type 2 Diabetes: Cold drinks, especially those high in sugar content, can significantly impact blood sugar levels, making it challenging for individuals with type 2 diabetes to manage their condition effectively. Consuming cold beverages alongside a meal can result in a rapid increase in blood sugar levels due to the combination of carbohydrates in the meal and the sugary content of the drink. This can lead to hyperglycemia and jeopardize overall blood sugar control.
  • Effect on Spleen Imbalance (Energy Deficiency): According to traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen plays a vital role in digestion and energy balance. Spleen imbalance (energy deficiency) is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, poor digestion, and weak immunity. Cold drinks are believed to weaken the spleen’s function, impairing the digestive process and further exacerbating these symptoms. Warm or room temperature drinks are generally recommended to support spleen health and maintain energy balance.
  • Influence on Fibromyalgia Symptoms: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition accompanied by widespread pain, fatigue, and muscle stiffness. Cold drinks can potentially worsen these symptoms by causing vasoconstriction and increasing muscle tension. Warm or room temperature beverages, on the other hand, can help relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve overall comfort.
  • Impact on Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Cold drinks can trigger increased sensitivity and discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract. Cold temperatures slow down digestion and intestinal motility, potentially leading to constipation and bloating and exacerbating symptoms. Additionally, vasoconstriction effects caused by cold drinks can restrict blood flow to the intestines, further compromising digestive function.

While minimizing cold drinks with meals is recommended, it is essential to maintain proper hydration throughout the day. To support optimal digestion, it is advisable to consume warm or room temperature beverages with meals. Warm drinks have the opposite effect, as they promote relaxation of the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, stimulate blood flow, and enhance enzymatic activity. This aids in efficient digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gastrointestinal function.

Opt for warm or room temperature beverages between meals to support hydration goals. Additionally, consuming water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables can contribute to overall hydration levels.

Sources:

  • Panwar, H., Calder, P. C., & Yaqoob, P. (2018). Temperature sensitivity of digestion and absorption of dietary lipids in the framework of inflammatory lipidomic adaptations. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 37(4), 333-345. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1415014)Effects on Gastric Motility:
  • Park, M. I., Camilleri, M., Shin, A., Lyle, B. J., Carlson, P. J., & Burton, D. D. (2013). Effect of cold stimulation on proximal gastric motor and sensory function in humans. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 19(3), 332-338. doi: 10.5056/jnm.2013.19.3.332)
  • Diabetes UK. (2021). Can I have sugar-free cold drinks? Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/enjoy-food/eating-with-diabetes/can-i-have-sugar-free-cold-drinks
  • Quigley, E. M. (2006). Review article: The efficacy and safety of the ‘no cold’ water diet in the management of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 24(5), 780-787.

 

 

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