Hot Water: Why Should You Drink It?
Hot or cold, water keeps you hydrated and healthy.
Drinking hot water instead of cold water can help improve digestion, relieve congestion, and even promote relaxation.
Despite little scientific research, hot water has been demonstrated to have some health benefits. However, many people have reported benefits from using remedies based on hot water, especially when taking it first thing in the morning or right before bedtime.
The optimal temperature for drinking hot beverages is between 54 and 71 degrees Celsius (130-161°F).
Take into consideration that overheating the water can lead to burns and scalds.
In this article, we’ll discuss 10 benefits of drinking hot water.
1. Relief of Nasal Congestion
Steam is created by hot water. You can help unclog your sinuses by holding a cup of hot water and breathing in the gentle steam.
If you suffer from a sore throat due to mucus buildup in your sinuses and throat, drinking hot water can help relieve the symptoms.
Earlier studies conducted in 2008 found that a hot drink, such as tea, provides quick, lasting relief from runny noses, coughing, sore throats, fatigue, and general malaise. Compared to a similar drink at room temperature, the hot drink was more effective.
2. Facilitates Digestion
The digestive system operates more efficiently when water is consumed. Water assists the body in removing waste more quickly as it moves through the stomach and intestines.
Many people believe that drinking hot water activates the digestive system and according to the theory, hot water can also dissolve and dissipate the food you’ve eaten that may have been difficult to digest.
3. May Improve Brain Functions
If you do not drink enough water, hot or cold, it can affect your nervous system, ultimately affecting your mood and brain function. According to research published in 2019, drinking water has the potential to improve brain function and mood.
During difficult activities, participants in this study reported feeling less anxious and increased their brain activity when drinking water.
4. Can Help Relieve Constipation
Constipation is often caused by dehydration.
Constipation can often be relieved and prevented by drinking water.
By staying hydrated, the stool becomes softer and easier to pass.
You may be able to maintain regular bowel movements by drinking hot water regularly.
5. Helps You Stay Hydrated
Despite some evidence that cool water is best for rehydration, drinking water at any temperature will keep you hydrated.
Women should drink 78 ounces (2.3 liters) of water each day, while men should drink 112 ounces (3.3 liters).
Additionally, you should drink more water if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or performing strenuous activity.
The importance of water cannot be overstated, since it helps to perform virtually every essential function in the body.
6. Reduces Shivering In Cold Weather or Cold Environments
Drinking warm fluids can help reduce shivering in cold conditions, according to a 2017 study.
During the experiment, subjects wore suits circulated with water slightly above freezing, and then drank water at temperatures ranging from 126°F (52°C) up to 160°F.
Researchers found that subjects who drank hot water quickly had fewer problems maintaining their body temperature.
7. Helps Improve Blood Circulation
Your risk of cardiovascular disease is influenced by your blood flow as well as your blood pressure.
Bathing in hot water expands blood vessels and allows them to carry blood more efficiently throughout your body.
You can achieve a similar effect by drinking hot water.
8. Can Decrease Stress Levels
You might feel less anxious if you drink hot water since it helps improve nervous system functions.
Drinking less water reduced feelings of calmness, satisfaction, and positive emotions, according to a 2014 study.
By staying hydrated, you may feel more relaxed and able to concentrate.
9. Aids The Detoxification Process In The Body
It is not known if the hot water has a specific benefit in this area. However, a 2020 study suggests drinking more water may help protect the kidneys and dilute waste materials in the blood.
Additionally, drinking water can help flush out your body, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Additionally, it helps to reduce inflammation, keep joints well lubricated, and prevent gout.
10. Helps Relieve Symptoms of Achalasia
Achalasia is a condition in which your esophagus has trouble moving food to your stomach.
Achalasia causes difficulty swallowing. The food gets stuck in the esophagus instead of making its way to the stomach. In an older study from 2012, researchers found drinking warm water may help people with achalasia digest more comfortably.
