Warm water vs. cold water – which is better to drink?
With the summer heat already soaring, grabbing a glass of cold water is usual for most of us. Hence, it is believed that drinking warm water is better for health. But have you ever wondered if it is actually true? Warm water vs. cold water – which is better to drink?
Nutritionist and dietician, drinking warm water eases digestion while cold water is good for dealing with a heat stroke. Confused? Our expert clears your doubts on when you should drink warm water and what is the right time to drink cold water.
Health benefits of drinking warm water
Improves digestion :
According to Ayurveda and ancient Chinese medicine, you should drink a glass of warm water early in the morning. This is because, it activates the digestive system, which helps avoid indigestion. It also helps to stimulate blood flow to intestine and helps prevent constipation.
Detoxifies your body:
Did you know that warm water helps your body get rid of harmful toxins? It not only reduces pitta in your body, but also prevents acne and other skin problems. To further enhance its effect, squeeze half a slice of lemon in the water and drink it every day.
Relieves nasal congestion :
Not many people are aware of the fact that warm water is good for people suffering from nasal and throat congestion. It acts as a natural expectorant by aiding in the expulsion of phlegm from the respiratory tract.
Combats pain :
As warm water increases the blood flow to tissues, it can act as an excellent natural help to provide relief from pain. Hence, if you are experiencing frequent joint pain or menstrual cramps, start drinking warm water.
Health benefits of drinking cold water
Excellent post-workout drink :
It is a known fact that during exercises, your body temperature increases. To lower your body temperature post workout, it is recommended to drink cold water.
Combats heat stroke :
Drinking cold water during summers is good for your health. Cold water gets absorbed quickly by the body as compared to warm or hot water. When you are back home from the scorching heat or if you experience a heat stroke, drink a glass of cold water.
Aids in weight loss :
The key principle behind losing weight is to enhance your metabolism that in turn burns more calories. Drinking cold water and even cold water baths boosts your metabolism.
Cold water vs. warm water – which is good for health?
Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda do not recommend drinking cold water because of the belief that cold water causes contraction of muscles. On the other hand, drinking warm water increases blood circulation along with protecting internal organs from damage. This is why most health professionals recommend drinking warm water for optimal health. However, on a hot day, you can drink cold water as it cools your body temperature quickly.
When should you not drink warm water or cold water?
As there are exceptions to every rule, here is what you need to bear in mind –
Cold water
Never drink cold water while eating food. When you drink cold water immediately after meals or along with a meal, your body spends a lot of energy in increasing its temperature. This slows the digestion process, which may cause indigestion.
Warm water
Avoid drinking warm water after a bout of exercise. As your body temperature is already high post workout, drinking cold water will lower the temperature of your body.
So what is your final choice : warm water or cold water? The choice is yours. Choose smartly!