Can I eat ice cream during fever and sore throat? Separating fact from myth

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

While millions of sore throats occur annually, the question of whether a cold, creamy treat helps or hurts remains a common concern. So, can I eat ice cream during fever and sore throat? The truth is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, as it involves weighing temporary relief against potential downsides to your overall recovery.

Quick Summary

Ice cream offers temporary soothing for a sore throat due to its cold temperature, but its high sugar content can increase inflammation. It is a poor nutritional choice during a fever when the body needs nutrient-dense foods to aid recovery. For optimal health, prioritize hydration and soft, nutrient-rich alternatives like broths or fruit sorbets over high-sugar, fatty desserts.

Key Points

Temporary Relief, Not a Cure: Ice cream's coldness can numb a sore throat briefly, but it will not cure the underlying illness and its relief is short-lived.
High Sugar, Low Nutrition: Most ice cream is high in sugar, which can increase inflammation and lower immune function, and lacks the vital nutrients your body needs to fight a fever.
The Dairy Dilemma: Dairy products don't increase mucus production, but can make existing mucus feel thicker for some people, potentially increasing throat irritation.
Prioritize Hydration and Nutrients: During a fever, hydration with water, broths, and nutrient-rich, easily digestible foods like soup or smoothies is far more beneficial for recovery than ice cream.
Choose Healthier Alternatives: Better cold options include low-sugar fruit sorbets or popsicles, while warm broths and herbal teas offer great soothing effects and nutritional value.

Understanding the Double-Edged Scoop: Ice Cream and a Sore Throat

The appeal of ice cream when you have a sore throat is undeniable. The cold temperature can provide instant, numbing relief to irritated tissues, much like a cold compress on a sprain. This is a key reason why many people, especially children, find it comforting after medical procedures like a tonsillectomy. However, this relief is often fleeting and comes with a significant trade-off. Most commercial ice creams are high in sugar, which can suppress the immune system and potentially fuel inflammation, extending the duration of your discomfort.

The Dairy and Mucus Debate

Another common concern is whether dairy products, like those in ice cream, increase mucus production. For some time, it was a widespread myth that dairy makes phlegm thicker and worsens congestion. Research has shown that while milk doesn't increase mucus production, it can make existing mucus feel thicker and more irritating for some individuals. If you notice this effect, opting for a non-dairy alternative like a sorbet or a plant-based frozen dessert might be a better choice. For those without dairy sensitivities, the milk and cream can also provide much-needed calories and fat, which can be useful when you have a limited appetite during illness.

The Real Issue: Ice Cream's Role During a Fever

While the cold can temporarily soothe a sore throat, it offers no therapeutic benefit for a fever. During a fever, your body is in a state of heightened stress, burning through energy and fluid to fight off an infection. The primary goals of nutrition are rehydration and replenishing nutrients lost through sweating. Ice cream, being high in fat and sugar, is low in the essential nutrients your body needs to power its immune response. Furthermore, processing fats and sugars can be hard on a sensitive digestive system when you're feeling unwell. In this context, ice cream is less a remedy and more an indulgence that offers little to support your body's recovery process.

Prioritizing Nutritious Choices

To recover effectively from a fever, you should prioritize fluids and easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods. This is why medical professionals often recommend water, broths, and gentle herbal teas. A balanced approach involves seeking out soft, soothing foods that also contribute meaningfully to your body's recovery. This is where healthier alternatives shine, offering both comfort and nutritional support.

Healthier Alternatives for Soothing Your Throat and Supporting Recovery

Instead of a sugar-laden dessert, consider these options that provide both comfort and nutrition:

Warm Broths and Soups: Warm liquids can be incredibly soothing for a raw, swollen throat and can help clear congestion. Broths provide essential fluids and electrolytes, while adding ingredients like chicken and vegetables can deliver protein, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Herbal Teas with Honey: Warm, non-caffeinated tea is another excellent option. Honey, with its natural antimicrobial properties, can help coat and soothe an irritated throat. Remember not to give honey to children under 1 year of age.
Fruit-Based Sorbet or Popsicles: For those who crave something cold, fruit-based alternatives are a great substitute. Look for options with low added sugar or make your own using 100% fruit juice. This avoids the dairy issue for those with sensitivities and provides some vitamins.
Smoothies: A nutrient-packed smoothie can be a full meal when you lack an appetite. Blend soft fruits like bananas, melons, or peaches with a liquid base like almond milk or water. Adding a scoop of yogurt can introduce probiotics to support your immune system.
Yogurt: Soft, cool, and rich in probiotics, yogurt can be very comforting. Opt for a plain, low-sugar variety to maximize its health benefits.

Comparing Ice Cream with Healthier Alternatives


Feature	Ice Cream	Fruit Sorbet/Popsicle	Chicken Broth/Soup	Nutrient Smoothie
Nutritional Value	High in sugar and fat, low in essential vitamins and minerals.	Low in fat, provides some fruit-derived vitamins and antioxidants.	Hydrating, rich in electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Adds protein with chicken/veg.	Provides vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats depending on ingredients.
Throat Soothing	Good temporary numbing effect due to cold temperature.	Good temporary numbing effect. Dairy-free options available.	Warmth soothes throat, helps clear congestion, and lubricates tissues.	Cold and smooth, very gentle on the throat.
Immune Support	High sugar can increase inflammation and suppress immune function.	Low sugar is better, but still lacks comprehensive immune support.	Rich in nutrients that support immune function and hydration.	Can be packed with immune-boosting vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C), probiotics.
Recovery Focus	Hinders recovery due to poor nutritional profile and inflammatory effects of sugar.	Neutral or slightly beneficial; provides hydration and is easy to swallow.	Supports hydration and recovery with essential nutrients and electrolytes.	Actively supports recovery with high nutritional density, ideal for low appetite.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Body

While the siren call of a cold, sweet bowl of ice cream during a fever and sore throat is strong, it's not the best choice for a speedy and complete recovery. Its immediate, temporary relief for a sore throat is outweighed by its poor nutritional value and high sugar content, which can work against your body's healing process. Prioritizing proper hydration and easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods will support your immune system more effectively. When you crave a cold treat, opt for healthier alternatives like low-sugar popsicles or nutrient-rich smoothies. Listening to your body and choosing nourishing options is always the wisest path when you're under the weather. For ongoing or severe symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is always recommended.

For further reading on nutrient-dense foods during illness, visit Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, ice cream does not make a fever worse. However, it's not a nutritious food to consume when your body needs energy to fight an infection, as it offers poor nutritional value and can be difficult to digest due to high fat and sugar content.

Yes, a small, moderate amount of ice cream can be okay for temporary sore throat relief due to its cold, numbing effect. However, healthier, low-sugar alternatives are better for overall recovery.

Healthier alternatives include soft, cold foods like fruit sorbets, popsicles made with 100% juice, or yogurt. Warm options like broths, herbal teas with honey, and smoothies are also excellent choices.

No, it is not necessary to avoid all dairy unless you have a sensitivity or allergy. While it can make mucus feel thicker for some, it doesn't increase production. Dairy products can provide calories and protein when your appetite is low.

Yes, high sugar intake can potentially increase inflammation and weaken your body's immune response, which is why sugary foods like many ice creams are not recommended when you're ill.

When you have a fever, the best foods are nutrient-dense and hydrating, such as broths, soups, soft fruits, and well-cooked vegetables. Focusing on fluids is especially important to prevent dehydration.

Yes, many doctors recommend ice cream after a tonsillectomy because the cold temperature can be very soothing for post-operative pain. However, some find the sugar or dairy irritating, so it's best to check with your doctor for specific dietary advice.