The Impact of Cold Foods on Your Body: Health Risks

Cold items

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask: the human body prefers a warm environment.
If one frequently consumes cold foods and drinks, which organs in the body could be adversely affected? (I know about the stomach.) Also, with summer approaching...
Last year, I developed a rash on the upper part of my chest, and it didn't improve even after seeing a dermatologist or applying medication myself.
It gradually disappeared only in the autumn and winter.
Now I have developed a small rash again (just a little).
I understand the importance of keeping the skin clean, but I have heard that this might be related to poor spleen function.
Is that true? It seems that consuming cold items has negatively impacted my spleen, leading to this condition.
What should I really be aware of? Thank you, Doctor.

Miao Miao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/03

Dr. Zhao Chongliang reply Internal Medicine

Skin conditions related to cold include (1) winter itch (winter eczema), (2) palmoplantar keratoderma (Keratodermia Tylodes Palmaris Progressiva), (3) atopic dermatitis, and (4) cold urticaria.
These conditions are often triggered by exposure to cold and dryness, commonly presenting with itching symptoms.
Consuming cold foods typically does not lead to these skin conditions, as the rich vascular supply in the body quickly warms the ingested food, unless a large quantity of cold food is consumed at once.
Additionally, if your skin symptoms are not itchy and resolve in winter, they are unlikely to be caused by physical cold factors.
If they occur in summer, they may resemble dermatitis triggered by sunlight or sweat.
Sunlight-related skin conditions include polymorphic light eruption and solar urticaria, while sweat-related conditions include heat rash (commonly known as prickly heat) and multiple sweat gland abscesses.
Both solar urticaria and multiple sweat gland abscesses can present with papules.
Therefore, I recommend avoiding sun exposure and wearing moisture-wicking clothing.

Reply Date: 2004/05/03

More Info

The consumption of cold foods and beverages has been a topic of discussion in various cultures, particularly in relation to its effects on health. While modern nutritional science does not provide concrete evidence that the temperature of food significantly impacts bodily functions, there are traditional beliefs and anecdotal experiences that suggest otherwise.
From a physiological perspective, the human body is indeed designed to maintain a stable internal temperature, and it can adapt to various external conditions, including the temperature of food consumed. When cold food or drinks are ingested, the body works to warm them to core temperature, which is generally around 98.6°F (37°C). This process requires energy and can lead to a temporary decrease in digestive efficiency, particularly if large quantities of cold items are consumed at once.
Regarding specific organs, the stomach is often cited as being particularly sensitive to cold foods. Cold items can slow down gastric motility, potentially leading to discomfort, bloating, or indigestion in some individuals. However, these effects are typically mild and vary from person to person.
Your mention of skin issues, such as the rash you experienced, raises an interesting point. Skin conditions can be influenced by a variety of factors, including diet, environmental conditions, and individual health status. In traditional Chinese medicine, for example, it is believed that consuming excessive cold foods can weaken the spleen and lead to various health issues, including skin problems. The spleen is thought to play a crucial role in digestion and the production of Qi (energy) and blood.
However, it is essential to note that modern dermatology often attributes skin conditions to factors such as allergies, irritants, hormonal changes, or underlying health issues rather than solely to dietary choices. The fact that your rash improved during the colder months suggests that environmental factors, such as humidity and temperature, may have played a significant role in your skin's condition.
To address your concerns about cold foods and their potential impact on your health, here are some recommendations:
1. Moderation: While it is not necessary to eliminate cold foods and beverages entirely, moderation is key. Balance your diet with warm foods, especially during colder months, to support digestive health.

2. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to cold foods. If you notice discomfort or digestive issues after consuming cold items, consider reducing their intake.

3. Maintain Skin Health: Keep your skin clean and moisturized, especially in dry winter months. If you experience persistent skin issues, consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.

4. Balanced Diet: Focus on a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of foods, both warm and cold. Ensure you are getting adequate nutrients to support overall health.

5. Hydration: Stay hydrated, but consider drinking room temperature or warm fluids, especially in winter, to support digestion and overall comfort.

In conclusion, while cold foods may not be inherently harmful, individual responses can vary. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet, listen to your body's signals, and consult healthcare professionals when needed to address specific health concerns.

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