Keep Drinking Cold Beverages? Say Hello to Bloating and Digestive Woes! (Acupuncture Los Angeles)

Are you a fan of ice-cold drinks and turning the AC up after a hot summer day? While these may seem refreshing, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) warns that these habits, especially in combination with others like drinking cold beer daily, can lead to less desirable effects such as bloating, digestive problems, and even colds. Here’s a deeper dive into why you might want to rethink these summer comforts:

The Cold Hard Truth

Digestive Discomfort:

In TCM, your stomach is considered a "warm pot" that digests what you eat by "cooking" it. Pouring cold water—or ice-cold beverages—into your warm pot can extinguish the digestive fire that's essential for effective digestion, leading to bloating, gas, and even stomach pain. 

Air Conditioning and Health:

Blasting the air conditioner right after coming in from the heat, especially after a warm shower, can be harmful. When your pores are open from the heat, the sudden exposure to cold air can allow pathogens to enter more easily, potentially leading to colds or other respiratory issues. The drastic change in temperature challenges the body's ability to maintain balance.

 The Daily Cold Beer:

A cold beer might seem like the perfect end to a warm summer day, but daily consumption can exacerbate health issues. Similar to cold beverages, cold beer can cool down the stomach too much, slowing digestion and creating an environment prone to digestive issues.

Additional Insight:

If you are leading such a lifestyle and yet show no symptoms, you might indeed have a remarkably robust stomach. However, remember not to become complacent about your health. Damage can accumulate slowly and eventually lead to significant problems. It’s better to maintain your well-being now than to repair it later.

What Can You Do?

Switch to Warmer Alternatives:

Opt for room temperature or warm beverages, which can help maintain your digestive fire. Herbal teas or simply a cup of warm water can aid digestion and support your metabolism.

Moderate the AC Setting:

Try to avoid setting your air conditioning too cold, especially immediately after coming indoors from high temperatures or taking a shower. Keeping indoor air cool but not cold helps prevent your body from experiencing extreme temperature changes.

Mind Your Drink:

Consider moderating your intake of cold beer and other chilled beverages, especially during meals or at the end of the day. Choosing drinks that are closer to room temperature can help maintain your internal balance.

Listen to Your Body:

Paying attention to how your body responds after consuming cold beverages, using air conditioning, or drinking beer can provide valuable insights into what truly works for your health.

Faster Recovery, Natural Solution.

ProVision Acupuncture

Disclaimer:

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and before starting any new health regimen.