Is Cold Water Bad For You? Unpacking the Health Risks and Benefits

The question of whether drinking cold water is detrimental to your health has been a topic of debate. Some believe it can negatively impact digestion by causing the stomach to contract. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking.

Both cold water and water at room temperature are effective for hydration. Cold water can be particularly invigorating after physical activity, aiding in body cooling and potentially providing a modest boost to metabolism. While some individuals with sensitive teeth or digestive systems might experience discomfort, the majority can consume it without any adverse effects. Ultimately, the choice is a matter of personal preference. The paramount concern is maintaining adequate hydration, as water, regardless of its temperature, plays a vital role in both mental and physical well-being.

Potential Downsides of Drinking Cold Water

Cold water consumption can have unanticipated consequences on the body. A study conducted in 1978, involving 15 participants, revealed that cold water increased the thickness of nasal mucus, thereby impeding its passage through the respiratory tract. Conversely, hot water and chicken soup were found to have the opposite effect, facilitating easier breathing.

For individuals with pre-existing health conditions, cold water can intensify symptoms. Research indicates that drinking cold water may trigger migraines in susceptible individuals (as shown in a 2001 study) and exacerbate achalasia symptoms, a condition that impairs the passage of food through the esophagus (according to a 2012 study).

Traditional Chinese medicine posits that consuming cold water alongside hot food disrupts the body's equilibrium. This is why meals are often accompanied by warm water or tea. Similar beliefs are held in other cultures, such as the notion that cold water on a hot day may not provide adequate cooling relief. However, further research is warranted to substantiate these claims.

The Upsides: Positive Effects of Drinking Cold Water

Reports suggest that the benefits of drinking cold water include:

• Beneficial for athletes or individuals engaging in strenuous physical activity
• Helps prevent overheating during exercise (2012 study)
• Makes workout sessions more successful
• Assists in maintaining a lower core temperature, enhancing physical performance.
• Cold water is super refreshing on hot days or after a tough workout. It helps cool you down, slows your heart rate, and makes you feel better faster.

Cold Water and Weight Loss: Is There a Connection?

Drinking cold water may contribute to weight loss, albeit to a limited extent. Benefits include:

• Lower calorie intake when replacing sugary drinks
• Improved digestion
• Slight increase in calorie burn as the body works to warm the water to core temperature