Your body stays hydrated and healthy when you drink water, whether it’s hot or cold. Compared to drinking cold water, some individuals claim that there are several benefits of drinking hot water, which aid in better digestion, reduce congestion, and even encourage relaxation.
Since there isn’t much scientific study on the subject, the majority of the health advantages of hot water are based on anecdotal stories. Nevertheless, a lot of individuals experience the advantages of this therapy, particularly in the morning or just before bed.
According to studies, the ideal temperature range for hot drinks is between 130 and 160°F (54 and 71°C). Burns or scalds may result in temperatures over this. Try twisting a lemon into boiling water to produce lemon water, which will offer vitamin C and an additional health benefit.
Why You Should Drink Hot Water
1. Relieves Nasal Congestion
Steam is produced by a cup of boiling water. A sinus headache may be relieved, and congested sinuses may be opened by holding a cup of hot water and inhaling deeply. Since your throat and sinuses are covered in mucous membranes, sipping hot water will help warm those areas and relieve a painful throat brought on by mucus accumulation.
Research on the benefits of drinking hot water found that a hot beverage, like tea, provides immediate and long-lasting relief from fatigue, coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Compared to the identical beverage at room temperature, the hot beverage was more effective.
2. Aids Digestion
Drinking water keeps the digestive system moving, which helps the body get rid of waste. Some people think that drinking hot water is particularly good for activating the digestive system because it can dissolve and dissipate food that your body may have had trouble digesting.
More research is needed to confirm this benefit, but a study suggested that warm water may have positive effects on intestinal movements and gas expulsion after surgery. In the meantime, if you feel that drinking hot water helps your digestion, there is no harm in using this as a remedy.
3. Improves Central Nervous System
A study about the health benefits of drinking hot water found that drinking hot water can improve mood and central nervous system activity. It also decreased self-reported anxiety and increased brain activity during demanding activities.
In other words, not drinking enough water, whether hot or cold, can negatively impact nervous system functioning, which in turn affects mood and brain function.
4. Helps in Constipation
If you suffer from constipation, integrating hot water into your daily routine might bring relief. The warmth of the water helps to stimulate your bowels, facilitating regular motions.
It also breaks down food more effectively than cold or room-temperature water, minimizing the risk of chronic dehydration, which may cause constipation. By encouraging good bowel function, hot water may help avoid uncomfortable motions, hemorrhoids, and bloating.
5. Promotes Better Skin Health
Skin care is crucial, and the best way to wash your body is with warm water, as it helps flush out the toxins that aggravate acne and other skin issues.
One of the benefits of drinking hot water is that the warmth helps carry nutrients and oxygen-rich blood to your skin cells. In addition to keeping the skin from being loose, it makes the skin more radiant.
6. Keeps You Hydrated
Drinking water at any temperature can help you stay hydrated, even if some research suggests that chilly water is ideal for rehydration. According to the Institute of Medicine, males should consume 112 ounces (3.3 liters) of water each day, while women should consume 78 ounces (2.3 liters). Those figures include water from meals, including fruits, vegetables, and anything that melts.
Additionally, if you’re pregnant or nursing, exercising vigorously, or working in a hot area, you’ll need a lot more water. Try having a glass of hot water at the beginning of the day and another at the end. The importance of water cannot be overemphasized since your body must carry out almost all of its vital processes.
7. Reduces Shivering In Cold Weather
According to research, consuming warm liquids helps lessen shivering, even though it’s the body’s normal reaction to chilly weather. The participants drank water at various temperatures, including as high as 126°F (52°C), while wearing suits that were cycled with just-above-freezing water.
The individuals had to work less to keep their body temperature stable after consuming hot water. That may be useful for those who work out or exercise in chilly weather.
8. Improves Circulation
Your risk of cardiovascular disease and blood pressure are both impacted by healthy blood flow. Your arteries and veins, which are your circulatory organs, enlarge and distribute blood throughout your body more efficiently when you take a warm bath.
The health benefits of drinking hot water can be comparable. There isn’t much evidence, however, that this works. The warmth from taking a bath or sipping hot water at night may also help you relax and get ready for a good night’s sleep.
9. Reduces Stress
Drinking hot water has a relaxing impact that may ease tension and encourage rest. Your throat and digestive system may find the water’s warmth comforting, reducing pain and enhancing well-being.
Enjoying a cup of hot water may provide you with a much-needed respite from the demands of everyday life, enabling you to relax and rejuvenate. Apart from its ability to alleviate stress, hot water may also help with certain medical issues.
The Bottom Line
Drinking hot water is safe and may help you keep hydrated throughout the day, even if there isn’t much direct data on the advantages of hot vs cold water. It’s simple to develop the habit of drinking hot water. Consider having a cup of hot water to start your day and letting it cool for a little. Try hot water with lemon if you don’t drink tea or coffee.
You will feel more invigorated and prepared to face the day if you include a little stretching exercise in your regimen. Before you sip the warm water, add a citrus twist, such as lemon or lime, if you don’t like the way it tastes. One of the best ways to relax after a long day is to have a glass of warm water before bed. Being aware of the health benefits of drinking hot water can help you sleep better.
FAQ
Q: What time of day is ideal for drinking warm water?
A: Your goals will determine when it’s best to drink warm water. It has the ability to stimulate digestion and eliminate toxins in the morning. It may help with digestion and help you avoid overeating if you drink it before meals. Warm water at night promotes muscular relaxation and better sleep.
Q: Is abdominal fat burned by hot water?
A: Burning abdominal fat is not achieved by just drinking hot water. However, by increasing metabolism, enhancing digestion, and making you feel fuller, drinking enough water—including warm water—can help you lose weight and maybe cut down on overeating. Therefore, for successful weight reduction, combine drinking warm water with a nutritious diet and consistent exercise.
Q: Does drinking hot water have any drawbacks?
A: Indeed, if you’re not cautious, drinking hot water might have some drawbacks. It might burn your lips or throat if you drink it too hot, which is uncomfortable. Regularly drinking hot water will eventually strain your digestive system as well. It’s recommended to stay with warm water that is pleasant and calming.
