Coughing after drinking a milkshake may occur due to a sensitivity to cold temperatures, lactose intolerance, or the thickness of the shake irritating your throat.
If you’ve ever coughed after enjoying a milkshake, you’re not alone. This common reaction can stem from several underlying causes, ranging from lactose intolerance to temperature sensitivity. Understanding why it happens can help you enjoy your favorite treat without discomfort.
Common Causes of Coughing After Milkshakes
1. Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance occurs when your body lacks enough lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose (milk sugar). Undigested lactose can irritate your throat and trigger coughing. Symptoms often include:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Stomach cramps
- Throat irritation leading to cough
2. Dairy Allergy
Unlike lactose intolerance, a dairy allergy involves your immune system reacting to milk proteins (casein or whey). This can cause:
- Coughing or wheezing
- Hives or rash
- Swelling of the lips or throat
If you suspect an allergy, consult a doctor immediately.
3. Cold Temperature Trigger
The sudden cold from a milkshake can cause throat spasms, leading to coughing. This is especially common in people with sensitive airways or asthma.
4. Acid Reflux (GERD)
Dairy can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to rise. This irritates the throat, causing:
- Chronic cough
- Heartburn
- Sour taste in mouth
5. Excess Mucus Production
Dairy may thicken mucus in some people, leading to throat irritation and coughing. While research is mixed, many report this effect.
How to Prevent Coughing After Milkshakes
1. Try Dairy Alternatives
Opt for dairy-free milk alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. These are gentler on sensitive throats.
2. Adjust Temperature
Let your milkshake sit for a few minutes to slightly warm up before drinking. The less extreme temperature change may prevent throat irritation.
3. Smaller Sips
Drink slowly with smaller sips to give your throat time to adjust to the temperature and texture.
4. Use a Straw
A straw can help bypass some throat irritation by directing the milkshake further back in your mouth.
5. Consider Digestive Aids
For lactose intolerance, lactase enzyme supplements taken before consuming dairy may help prevent symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if:
- Coughing persists beyond occasional episodes
- You experience difficulty breathing
- Symptoms include swelling or hives
- Coughing is accompanied by chest pain
Alternative Treats
If milkshakes consistently cause problems, try these alternatives:
- Fruit smoothies made with a high-quality blender
- Dairy-free “nice cream” made from frozen bananas
- Chilled herbal teas
- Frozen yogurt (often better tolerated than ice cream)
Understanding Your Body’s Reaction
Pay attention to when and how you react to milkshakes. Keeping a food diary can help identify patterns and triggers. Note:
- Time of day consumed
- Specific ingredients
- Temperature of the drink
- Other foods eaten at the same time
According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, dairy-induced coughing is often related to underlying conditions like asthma or GERD rather than the dairy itself.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends allergy testing if you suspect dairy might be causing more than just occasional throat irritation.
