The Hidden Dangers of eating Snow: What You need to Know
It’s a scene straight out of childhood: catching snowflakes on your tongue or scooping up a handful of fresh snow for a swift taste. But as social media trends like snow cocktails with mint, lemon, or coffee gain popularity, experts are sounding the alarm. According to the National Federation of Orders of Surgeons and Dentists (Fnomceo), eating snow can pose serious health risks.
Why Eating Snow Can Be Dangerous
While the idea of eating snow might seem innocent, it’s far from harmless. “If some flakes savored in the mountains can be admitted, using snow to fill water bottles or even in the kitchen for sorbets or granitas is not a good idea,” warn experts. The risks are multifaceted: snow can harbor germs,pollutants,and even microplastics.
Professor Rolando Bolognino,a nutritional biologist,explains,“The snow that appears white and candid could give the impression of being clean,but it can contain several pollution particles,bacteria,and other impurities,such as microplastics,especially in cities or near roads.”
Bacteria and pollutants in Snow
not all bacteria are killed by freezing temperatures. “Most pathogens (bacteria and viruses) do not survive low temperatures,” say Fnomceo experts. However, some, like Escherichia coli, can persist in snow for up to two months. This bacterium, responsible for infections like gastroenteritis, is often introduced through animal feces or wastewater.
Even in pristine mountain settings, snow isn’t entirely safe. “If the snow is not white and fresh, it is better to avoid it,” experts caution. Yellow snow, in particular, should be avoided as it may contain animal urine or residues from car exhaust.
The Risks of Dehydration and Hypothermia
Using snow to quench thirst during mountain activities like skiing or hiking can be particularly dangerous. “The consumption of cold snow carries a greater risk to the body in terms of dehydration and hypothermia,” says Bolognino. Cold snow forces the body to expend more energy to warm it up, slowing digestion and reducing blood circulation.
How to Stay Hydrated Safely
Instead of relying on snow, experts recommend preparing for outdoor activities with the right hydration strategies. “The ideal would be the consumption of lukewarm drinks, such as herbal teas or teas, wich help the body regulate the internal temperature,” suggests Bolognino.
For those engaging in intense sports at high altitudes, adding mineral salts like magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium to water can definitely help replenish lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
What to Avoid
Certain drinks should be avoided in high-altitude settings.“Better to avoid black tea (which increases diuresis) and licorice infusions, especially at high altitudes, because this root can increase blood pressure,” advises Bolognino.
Key Takeaways
| Do’s and Don’ts of Eating Snow |
|————————————|
| Do: Stick to fresh, white snow in remote mountain areas. |
| Don’t: Eat snow that is yellow, trampled, or near roads.|
| Do: Opt for lukewarm herbal teas or electrolyte-infused water for hydration. |
| Don’t: Use snow to make sorbets, granitas, or cocktails. |
While the allure of eating snow might potentially be strong,the risks far outweigh the benefits.stay informed, stay safe, and choose healthier alternatives to stay hydrated during winter adventures.
