As the cold approaches, there is usually an increase in cases of flu and colds, two illnesses often associated with low temperatures. In these cases, the most common symptoms are nasal congestion and sore throat, two very annoying ailments that patients want to get rid of as quickly as possible.
In fact, there are some widespread misconceptions about colds. Who hasn’t heard the classic expressions “Get dressed, you’ll catch a cold” or “Don’t walk barefoot, you’ll get sick”? ? Well, despite popular belief, these two behaviors have nothing to do with each other. And these very common illnesses are caused by viruses, not colds, although that does have a lot to do with their spread.
Why should you eat ice cream when you have a sore throat?
But that’s not the only misconception related to colds. First aid and emergencies expert Miguel Assal shared a video on his TikTok account in which he debunked myths about consuming cold products like ice cream when your throat hurts.
When we feel unwell, most people recommend drinking hot drinks, such as milk with honey, so that the discomfort goes away, but they advise against cold drinks as this may worsen the condition. However, as he explains, these ideas have nothing to do with reality, and contrary to popular belief, these foods are beneficial.
When our throats hurt, this area expands, so the cold “has an analgesic effect in addition to being anti-inflammatory,” which is why it can help the pain go away, he says. Likewise, consuming it will also “help prevent the emergence of new infections.”
In fact, compare this to applying ice to reduce swelling and discomfort when hitting any part of your body. “It won’t cure you, but you’ll get through the disease with less discomfort, and it won’t hurt you at all, contrary to what many people think,” he points out.