It’s hot, the sun is blazing, and nothing sounds better than a cold scoop of ice cream. But according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), that might be the worst thing you can do for your body—especially in the summer.
Here’s why.
Summer is the Season of the Heart—and Heat
In TCM, summer is governed by the fire element and associated with the heart. It’s a time of outward energy, joy, and expansion. But that also means your Yang energy is at its peak. Eating ice cream—cold, sweet, and dairy-heavy—introduces an intense cold and damp influence into your system, which is exactly the opposite of what your body needs.
When you disrupt this balance, the result isn’t just a stomachache. It can show up as bloating, brain fog, fatigue, weakened digestion, and even mood swings.
Cold Doesn’t Cool You—It Shocks You
Western thinking says cold foods cool you down. But TCM sees it differently. Your digestive system, particularly the Spleen and Stomach, needs warmth to function properly. When you eat ice cream, you’re essentially pouring ice water on your internal fire—weakening your ability to transform food into energy and draining your Qi over time.
The irony? Eating too much cold food in summer can actually make you feel more tired, more sweaty, and more sluggish.
It Constricts the Throat and Triggers Coughing
From a TCM perspective, ice cream also constricts the blood vessels and energy pathways in the throat. This sudden cold contraction can cause the Qi in your Lungs to stagnate, leading to sore throats, coughing, or increased phlegm—especially if you already have a weak respiratory system. So if you notice yourself coughing after a few bites, it’s not just coincidence—it’s your body’s way of saying “no, thank you.”
There Are Better Ways to “Cool” Down
Instead of ice cream, TCM recommends foods that gently cool the body without harming digestion. Think:
· Mung beans
· Lotus root
· Cucumber or watermelon (in moderation)
· Chrysanthemum tea
These foods clear internal heat while supporting your body's natural rhythms
The Bottom Line
Summer is a time to enjoy life, yes—but also a time to protect your energy. If you absolutely must indulge, at least wash it down with a cup of hot water or tea—so you can warm the digestion and restore some harmony back into your system.
