During the hot summer weather, many people turn to cold drinks to cool down. However, due to the high temperatures, the digestive system is weakened. When consuming cold foods to beat the heat in the summer, it is important to pay attention to the following issues:
Do not consume in excess
Eating too much cold food at once can dilute stomach acid, affecting digestion. It can also overstimulate the intestines, leading to excessive intestinal peristalsis. This can shorten the time food stays in the small intestine, affecting the body's absorption of nutrients.
Avoid consuming cold drinks after intense exercise
After engaging in intense exercise, body temperature increases. Consuming a large amount of cold drinks at this time can cause sudden stimulation to the stomach, intestines, and throat, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, sore throat, hoarse voice, and cough.
Pay attention to food hygiene
Many bacteria and viruses can survive in low temperatures. For example, E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus can all survive in low temperatures. Therefore, consuming unclean cold drinks can pose a health risk. It is important to choose cold drinks from reputable manufacturers with intact packaging and within the expiration date.
Avoid long-term storage of cold drinks in summer
During the scorching summer, many people buy a large quantity of cold drinks and store them in the refrigerator for future consumption. However, prolonged freezing can lead to the growth of cold-loving bacteria. Therefore, it is best to consume cold drinks immediately after purchase to avoid any safety hazards.
Isolate cold drinks during storage
Due to limited space in the refrigerator, many people store cold drinks together with other food items. This practice is not recommended. The freezer compartment is usually used to store animal products, mostly unprocessed raw items. Cold drinks can easily get contaminated during storage, leading to potential health problems when consumed.
