During a heatwave, the common advice for staying cool often involves reaching for ice cream or other cold treats. However, the effectiveness of such methods is debated, with some suggesting that spicy foods might actually be more beneficial.
While cold foods and drinks can provide immediate, short-term relief by lowering core body temperature, their effect is transient. The body’s response to a sudden drop in temperature from consuming icy items can sometimes lead to shivering, a process that generates heat and can counteract the cooling effect.
Conversely, eating spicy foods, rich in capsaicin, can stimulate sweating. As sweat evaporates from the skin, it cools the body. This physiological response, known as gustatory sweating, can lead to a more sustained cooling effect than simply consuming cold items. The heat generated internally by the digestive process from any food is also a factor.
The choice between spicy and cold foods during extreme heat is not straightforward and may depend on individual responses and preferences. Hydration remains a critical component of staying cool, regardless of food choices. Consuming water and foods with high water content, such as fruits and vegetables, is paramount during heatwaves.