We did not see this one coming…
Omicron numbers are still rising, and many people are becoming ill. Thankfully, this variant's symptoms are mild in people who have been vaccinated and boosted.
According to World Health Organization officials, Omicron causes "milder symptoms" compared to previous variants—symptoms that occur in the upper body rather than in the lungs, which increases the chance of death. While the symptoms are milder, one of the most prevalent Omicron symptoms is a very sore throat, making it nearly impossible to desire any food.
"It's as if you had strep throat with Omicron," says Robert G. Lahita, MD, PhD ("Dr Bob"), Director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Disease at Saint Joseph Health and author of Immunity Strong. "Even liquids hurt."
In the case of a severely sore throat, it would seem only natural to go toward soft meals and liquids that are simple to consume. Broths and protein shakes are good options, and according to Dr Bob, ice cream can be added to the list.
"Eat ice cream if you don't have diabetes," Dr Bob advises. "Something that will easily pass through your [throat]."
While it may seem strange that a doctor would advise you to consume a sweet dessert, Dr Bob's advice is backed by very specific reasons that can help keep your body healthy during your illness.
"It gives you glucose as well as protein, so you'll be able to maintain some weight," Dr Bob says.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, each cup of ice cream contains a significant amount of protein. One cup of basic vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry ice cream contains approximately 4 to 5 grams of protein. You'll consume roughly 28 to 32 grams of sugar because this is a double portion (a typical serving is 1/2 cup).
However, according to Dr Bob, this isn't an issue with Omicron. One of the main reasons he recommends a high-sugar item is because of one particular unhealthy side effect he finds in his Omicron patients: extreme weight loss.
"A lot of patients who get Omicron or certainly Delta lose 20 to 30 pounds, and it's a significant concern," he says, noting a lack of appetite as a major contributor. "So go for it if you can eat regular food."
While the doctor is not suggesting that ice cream is a nutritious superfood, it may relieve some of the issues that Omicron patients are now experiencing.
First, ice cream is heavier in sugar and fat, which can help COVID patients who are severely losing weight maintain their weight.
Second, unlike many other desserts, ice cream contains some protein due to its milk content. Protein can aid in satiety, at the very least, leaving you feeling happy after a bowl.
Third, ice cream is a comforting special treat. It has a cooling effect on the throat and is believed to make you feel better when you're not feeling well.
Not a lover of ice cream? Go for the yoghurt.
Dr Bob also recommends yoghurt while you're sick with Omicron if you don't have a sweet tooth and want something tarter that will still provide you with the protein and fat you need.
"I've been saying that the best thing to do is probably eat yoghurt with some granola on top," Dr Bob explains. "Yogurt is an excellent probiotic for your gut, guaranteeing that it remains stable."
Dr Bob also suggests topping your yoghurt with little bite-sized slices of banana if you're up for it, which sounds like a fantastic ice cream topping.