Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsHealth BenefitsBest Time to Drink Hot WaterWhat About Tea or Coffee?Risks
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Health Benefits
Best Time to Drink Hot Water
What About Tea or Coffee?
Risks
Drinking hot water may be more than just a comfort drink. In traditional Chinese medicine, warm or hot water is often prescribed to help improve overall health and wellness.
While more research is needed, available evidence suggests drinking hot water may help improve digestion and support weight management. What’s more, some advocates of this practice report experiencing certain benefits, especially when drinking hot water first thing in the morning or before bed.
1. Maintains Hydration
Drinking enough waterthroughout the day is key to maintaining overall health and preventingdehydration, which occurs when the body doesn’t take in enough fluids.Hydration directly impacts neurological function, digestion, skin health, andkidney function.
Drinking hot water (especially during the cold winter months) has a psychologically soothing effect, encouraging you to drink more water and replenish lost fluids.
2. Reduces Shivering in the Cold
Experts note that the benefits of drinking hot water increase with the amount consumed. In addition, drinking warm water while exercising in the cold can positively impact performance and comfort levels.
Drinking warm water may also help prevent mild hypothermia.
3. Improves Circulation
Heat and warmthexpand blood vesselsand improve circulation in the body.This is why temperature therapies likesaunasand warm baths are often prescribed for various health benefits, including circulation.
Drinking hot or warm water may work in a similar way. Although heat temporarily warms your body internally, drinking hot water regularly cansupport blood flow.However, more evidence is needed.
4. Improves Blood Flow and Reduces Pain
A warm drink mayrelax musclesand support pain reduction. Studies show that increased circulation from external heat therapy delivers blood, nutrients, and oxygen to the body’s muscles and decreases lactic acid levels that can triggermuscle soreness.Drinking hot water may also reduce pain, though more research is needed.
5. Supports Weight Loss
Drinking more water is a popular tactic forsupporting weight lossbecause the metabolism process requires adequate fluid intake.Hot water might be a bonus because it increases body temperature and activatesmetabolism.
Drinking hot water rather than cold water may also support weight loss. In one study, consuming hot water (up to 98.6 degrees F—the same as “normal” body temperature) before a mealboosted metabolismfor up to 40 minutes afterward.
6. May Aid Digestion
Animal research suggests that drinking warm water during cold seasons supports a healthy gut environment. However, more human studies are needed.
7. May Help with Constipation
Some research shows that consuming hot water at 98.6 degrees F positively supports the gastrointestinal system and bowel movements.
8. May Relieve Nasal Congestion
Inhaling steamis a popular home remedy for clearingnasal congestion, and drinking tea is often recommended when feeling unwell.
9. May Improve Central Nervous System Function
The body’s central nervous system requires hydration to function properly. Not getting adequate fluids can negatively impact certain brain functions andmood regulation.
A study found that drinking enough water supported brain activity during challenging activities, and reduced reported anxiety levels.
10. May Reduce Stress
Staying hydrated may help improve mood because it supports the central nervous system. Studies suggest that not drinking enough water decreases the ability to feel calm, satisfied, and other positive emotions.
Research also found that drinking hot liquids lowers stress levels and reducesanxiety symptoms.
11. May Aid Detoxification
12. May Relieve Achalasia Symptoms
People withachalasia, a rare disorder that makes it difficult to swallow food and drink, may benefit from drinking warm water. In one study, people with this condition experienced more pain and other issues with swallowing whendrinking cold water. They reported that these symptoms improved when they consumed warm or hot beverages.
A Word From VerywellDrinking warm and hot beverages can help increase core body temperature and improve digestion. If you do not like the taste of water alone, add lemon, make herbal tea, or drink a clear broth. Make sure the water is cooled to a comfortable level before consumption.—EMILY DASHIELL, ND, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
A Word From Verywell
Drinking warm and hot beverages can help increase core body temperature and improve digestion. If you do not like the taste of water alone, add lemon, make herbal tea, or drink a clear broth. Make sure the water is cooled to a comfortable level before consumption.—EMILY DASHIELL, ND, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
Drinking warm and hot beverages can help increase core body temperature and improve digestion. If you do not like the taste of water alone, add lemon, make herbal tea, or drink a clear broth. Make sure the water is cooled to a comfortable level before consumption.
—EMILY DASHIELL, ND, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
What’s the Best Time of Day to Drink Hot Water?
The best time of day for drinking hot water is a personal preference. Hot water right after waking up is a warm beverage alternative to coffee. Others note that sipping on warm water just before bed is a calming way to unwind for a good night’s sleep.
Can You Get the Same Benefits From Tea or Coffee?
Consuming any liquid technically supports yourdaily fluid intake. However, coffee andcertain teascontain caffeine, which may cause more frequent urination and fluid loss.
Plain (in this case, hot) water is your best bet for staying hydrated.While there isn’t specific research on the benefits of different hot liquids, it’s probably safe to assume that your fluid needs are supported whether you’re sipping on a cup of warm tea, clear broth, or water.
Potential Risks
The practice of drinking warm or hot water is generally considered to be safe. Still, there are some potential risks and safety measures to take into consideration when you’re dealing with beverages at hot temperatures, such as:
Some research suggests that hot beverages can be safely consumed (and pleasantly enjoyed) at around 136 degrees Fahrenheit, though slightly cooler temperatures may also be preferred.To be safe, always allow your hot drink to cool down to a comfortable temperature before taking a sip.
Summary
While extensive research on the topic is limited, drinking hot water is a solid way to stay hydrated and potentially reap other health benefits, like improved digestion, weight management support, and reduced stress levels.
Whether you prefer hot water in the morning or at night, allow the beverage to cool to a safe temperature before consuming it to avoid burn risks. Hot water consumption is generally considered safe for most healthy adults. However, check with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions and are unsure whether this practice is right for you.
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