Why should you definitely avoid drinking ice-cold drinks in summer? (and which drinks to choose instead)
In summer, when it’s hot, it’s very tempting to reach for an ice-cold drink. However, drinking cold drinks could well make the very thing you’re trying to relieve worse: the sensation of thermal discomfort. While this may seem counter-intuitive, the effects of cold on the body are well documented: slower digestion, a paradoxical increase in internal heat, and a loss of energy. To cope with the heat sensibly, it’s better to opt for lukewarm, temperate drinks rich in herbs and natural active ingredients, such as those you can easily make using products available from Aroma-Zone.
By Dimitri K
Why should you avoid ice-cold drinks in summer?
Cold stimulates body heat rather than soothing it
When you drink something ice-cold, your body triggers a compensatory mechanism: to maintain its internal temperature, it starts to produce more heat. As a result, instead of cooling you down, you feel even hotter a few minutes later. This vicious circle is counterproductive, especially during a heatwave.
Slowed digestion and increased fatigue
Cold causes blood vessels to constrict, including those in the stomach and intestines. This can slow down digestion and leave you feeling bloated or tired after meals. In summer, the digestive system is already slower due to the heat: there’s no need to make matters worse with ice-cold drinks.
The false sensation of rehydration
Very cold drinks temporarily numb the mouth and throat. You may think you’ve rehydrated, when in fact the amount of water actually absorbed is often insufficient. This can contribute to dehydration, especially if the drink is sugary or has a diuretic effect.
Which natural drink should you choose instead?
Iced herbal tea… without ice!
Herbs such as verbena or lemongrass can be steeped in hot water and then left to cool to room temperature. Verbena tea, rich in soothing citrus notes, is ideal for making a gentle, hydrating drink. It helps to calm the body without subjecting it to extreme temperatures.
How can you stay hydrated without falling into the trap of drinking cold drinks?
Reintroduce lukewarm drinks into your daily routine
Rather than alternating between hot and ice-cold drinks, it’s better to drink lukewarm or room-temperature drinks consistently. A glass of water at 20–25°C provides optimal hydration and does not disrupt the body’s internal mechanisms.
Add a botanical touch with no added sugar
Blended cucumber or watermelon juice, served at room temperature, is far more effective than a cold fizzy drink. To enhance your homemade drinks, organic spirulina powder is a good addition: it remineralises and gives the body a boost, without any negative thermal effects.
Create a pampering routine with simple steps
Preparing a floral water every morning with hydrosol, a few slices of organic fruit and a pinch of spirulina becomes a wellness ritual. This helps to establish a habit of regular, natural hydration, without relying on commercially produced drinks or the fridge. The key is to keep the drink close to body temperature to derive real benefit from it.
Spotlight on our writer: Dimitri K
Dimitri has been interested in the connections between nature, health and wellbeing for several years. As a writer, he loves to make complex topics accessible, with a strong preference for simple, natural and effective approaches. Whether the topic is cosmetics, nutrition or wellness routines, he enjoys sharing practical and informed advice for a healthier everyday life.
