Eating ice cream after dinner is a common habit for many people, especially after a long day. However, adding a dessert rich in sugar and fat at the end of the day can affect the body in many different ways.
According to Dr. Shabana Parveen, Head of Clinical Nutrition and Diet at Artemis Hospital (India), after dinner, the body is still in the process of digestion. Eating more ice cream means increasing the total calorie intake. Ice cream contains a lot of sugar and fat, which can quickly increase blood sugar, then decrease, causing the body to feel tired.
Regarding digestion, eating ice cream after dinner is not always harmful, but it can affect some people. Ice cream is a cold and fatty food, which can slow down the digestion process, causing bloating or discomfort, especially in people with a sensitive digestive system or lactose intolerance.
The impact on weight depends on the frequency of use. If you only eat ice cream occasionally, the impact is insignificant. However, if you eat it every night, excess calories can accumulate and lead to weight gain. Consuming a lot of sugar for a long time also increases the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes.
Sleep can also be affected. Sugar in ice cream can make the body more alert, while fat can cause a feeling of bloating, affecting sleep quality. This is more noticeable in people who are prone to insomnia or nighttime digestive problems.
However, eating ice cream after dinner does not need to be completely eliminated. The important thing is how to use it. You should eat in small amounts, avoid eating too close to bedtime and do not maintain it as a daily habit. Choosing low-sugar ice creams or made from simple ingredients also helps reduce negative impacts.
Ice cream should be seen as a supplement, not replacing main meals or becoming a regular source of energy. Combining a balanced diet and maintaining exercise will help reduce the risk of health effects.
Eating ice cream after dinner is not harmful if used properly. Controlling portion sizes, frequency and timing are important factors to limit the impact on digestion, weight and sleep.
