An unusual theory is being discussed on social media. There is a suggestion that the habit of eating cold dishes or drinking icy beverages leads to increased anxiety and depression.
The temperature of food does matter for gut health and overall well-being, but what about mental health? Explained nutritionist, dietitian, and immunologist Alexandra Guskova.
How does food of different temperatures affect the body?
As the specialist noted, warm food stimulates digestion as it eliminates spasms.
"I don’t know how this is related to mental health, but from the perspective of its effect on the gut, warm food reacts better, sphincters open, and there are no spasms," Guskova clarified.
A study by scientists from Iran, published in the Shiraz E-Medical Journal, supports this position. The researchers' experiment shows that food of different temperatures affects mental health equally.
Why warm dishes are healthier
Our body is structured in such a way that for digesting food, not only its composition matters but also its temperature. Food that is too cold slows down the digestive processes, while food that is too hot irritates the mucous membranes of the intestines and stomach. The optimal option is dishes close to body temperature or slightly warmer.
Warm soups, porridges, stewed vegetables, and room temperature drinks help maintain normal gastrointestinal function and reduce the risk of spasms. The doctor noted that it is especially beneficial to adhere to this rule for people in the following cases:
with gastritis;
with irritable bowel syndrome;
with frequent digestive problems.
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