As the temperatures soar during summer, many people turn to ice cream for instant relief. The creamy, cold sensation provides a quick burst of refreshment, but is this popular summer treat really cooling you down? Surprisingly, while ice cream offers an immediate cooling effect, the process of digesting it can actually lead to an increase in body heat. Meanwhile, gelato, with its lower fat content and higher water composition, emerges as a healthier and more refreshing alternative. Understanding the science behind these desserts can help you make better choices to truly beat the heat during the hottest months.
The Quick Cooling Effect of Ice Cream
Ice cream delivers an instant sensation of cold, providing temporary relief when it melts in your mouth. Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, Clinical Nutritionist, Artemis Lite, New Delhi explains, “This immediate cooling sensation happens because ice cream is stored at low temperatures, lowering the temperature in the mouth and throat when consumed.” But while this feels refreshing in the moment, the cooling effect doesn’t last long.
The Warming Process Behind Ice Cream
Surprisingly, the body’s digestion of ice cream creates an opposite effect. Gagan Anand, Founder, Scuzo Ice ‘O’ Magic, sheds light on this phenomenon, “As your body starts digesting the ice cream, the process generates heat. Breaking down the fats and sugars in ice cream requires high energy, resulting in a warming effect rather than a cooling one.”
Dr. Tiwari echoes this, adding, “This process, known as thermogenesis, occurs as your body expends energy to digest the rich sugars and fats in ice cream, producing heat that can cancel out the initial sensation of coolness.”
Gelato: A Better Cooling Alternative?
If you want a longer-lasting cooling effect, Anand recommends opting for gelato, an Italian frozen delicacy known for its lower fat content. “Gelato contains less fat than traditional ice cream, meaning your body requires less energy to digest it, allowing for a more sustained cooling effect.” The higher water content in gelato also plays a role. “This makes it not only lighter but more refreshing, keeping you cool for longer,” he adds.
Additionally, gelato is often made from natural ingredients, offering a healthier option. “Good quality gelato leaves a lasting taste and provides a cooling sensation without the heavy fats that warm your body during digestion,” says Anand.
The Role of Sugar and Digestion in Cooling
Beyond fat content, sugar plays a key role in how our bodies react to frozen desserts. Dr. Tiwari warns, “High sugar content in ice cream leads to spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by a rapid drop, which can affect energy levels and even create a sense of lethargy rather than true refreshment.”
Moreover, the body’s core temperature is mainly regulated by blood circulation and sweating, not by consuming cold food or drinks. As Dr. Tiwari points out, “While ice cream provides a temporary sensation of cooling, it does not significantly lower your body’s core temperature. Once digestion begins, the heat produced may even leave you feeling warmer.”
The Psychological Effect of Ice Cream
There’s also a psychological factor at play. Eating ice cream is often associated with pleasure and a sense of relief from the heat. “This psychological aspect is important,” says Dr. Tiwari. “Even though the cooling effect is short-lived, the association of ice cream with comfort can make people feel cooler for a while.”
Ice Cream vs. Gelato
In conclusion, while ice cream gives you a momentary burst of coolness, its long-term effect is the opposite due to the heat generated during digestion. As Gagan Anand advises, gelato is the better choice for those seeking a refreshing, healthier alternative with a more sustained cooling impact. So, the next time you’re looking to beat the heat, consider a scoop of gelato for a truly refreshing experience!
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