Can I drink cold beverages with chronic gastritis?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have had chronic gastritis for more than half a year, and my condition has been controlled after treatment. Summer is coming soon, and I would like to know whether people with chronic gastritis can drink cold beverages.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Patients with chronic gastritis should avoid drinking cold beverages. The reasons are as follows: 1. **Irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa**: Cold beverages can directly irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa. For mucosa that is already damaged, this irritation may worsen inflammation and lead to a deterioration of symptoms. 2. **Exacerbation of discomfort symptoms**: Cold drinks may cause gastrointestinal spasms and worsen symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. 3. **Impairment of digestive function**: Cold beverages may also affect the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract, making it more difficult to digest and absorb food, thereby further burdening the gastrointestinal system. Therefore, patients with chronic gastritis should choose warm, bland, and easily digestible foods, and avoid cold beverages and other irritating foods to maintain gastrointestinal health.