Is ice cream good for a sore throat?

“I’ve had a sore throat with a cold, and swallowing hurts. Is ice cream good for sore throat, or can cold foods make it worse?”

Dr. Jonathan Panoeiro
Pediatric Neurologist CRM 1101544-RJ

Ice cream is good for sore throat when someone has the flu, a cold, or throat inflammation. Ice cream, cold water, and other cold foods do not make flu, cold, or sore throat symptoms worse.

Like applying ice to a sore area of the body, eating ice cream can have a local soothing effect in the throat by temporarily reducing sensitivity to pain. It may also help decrease swelling linked to inflammation.

This short-term relief can make it easier to drink fluids and eat in some situations, especially when throat pain makes swallowing uncomfortable. Even if ice cream is okay, it should be eaten in moderation.

If you have a sore throat, it’s best to see your primary care provider. They can determine the cause, recommend the right treatment, and advise you on what foods are suitable for your condition.

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