Can eating cold foods cause a delayed menstrual period?

Feb 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 19 years old. Today was supposed to be the first day of my menstrual period, but my period is late. Could this be related to eating an ice cream yesterday? Can consuming cold foods cause a delayed period?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Consuming excessive cold foods may lead to delayed menstruation. Cold foods are considered to have a cooling effect on the body, and frequent consumption of such foods, such as ice cream and popsicles, may stimulate blood vessels and reduce blood circulation. When these cold foods affect the uterine blood vessels, they may cause vasoconstriction, thereby disrupting hormonal balance and causing endocrine disorders, which can ultimately lead to menstrual delay. Additionally, women who consume cold foods during their menstrual period may also experience dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and reduced menstrual flow.

To avoid physical discomfort such as menstrual delay, women should control their intake of cold foods and尽量 avoid excessive consumption of cold items like ice cream and popsicles. If a small amount of cold food is occasionally consumed, there is generally no need for excessive concern, as it typically will not affect hormone levels or cause menstrual delay. Furthermore, women should also pay attention to keeping warm, avoid catching a chill, maintain regular sleep patterns, and follow healthy dietary habits to support overall physical well-being.