Russian doctor warns cold drinks and ice cream can raise body temperature in heat

A Russian physician, Simeon Avdiyev, has cautioned that some foods and beverages commonly chosen to cool down in summer can actually raise body temperature. Avdiyev said ice cream offers only a brief sensation of coolness, while its high fat and sugar content speeds digestion and generates internal heat. Sugar, he noted, elevates blood glucose and heart rate, intensifying the feeling of heat and sweating. Sugary sodas and packaged fruit juices carry similar risks due to their high sugar content, which can strain the body and increase thirst, according to the doctor. Cold beer, he added, dilates blood vessels and creates a false sense of refreshment, but contributes to fluid loss and fatigue. Very cold drinks cause a sudden drop in stomach temperature, prompting the body to produce more internal heat to restore balance. Avdiyev recommended room-temperature or lukewarm water over iced water for hydration. He also suggested sugar-free green tea, lemon- or mint-infused water, and water-rich fruits and vegetables such as cucumber, watermelon and melon to replenish fluids and support the body's natural cooling.