The Risks and Benefits of Drinking Cold Water for Health

Some people prefer to drink cold water because it feels more refreshing, especially during hot weather.

However, some say that drinking cold water is a bad habit that can harm long-term health.

This assumption is based on the idea that drinking cold water makes it harder for the stomach to digest food.

So, really?

Risks of drinking cold water

Reporting from Healthline, drinking cold water does affect the body in ways that may not be anticipated or desired.

A study involving 15 people found that drinking cold water made nasal mucus thicker and more difficult to pass through the respiratory tract.

In comparison, the researchers found that chicken soup and warm water helped breathe more easily.

If a person is suffering from a cold or flu, drinking cold water can make the symptoms of nasal congestion worse.

In addition, there are several health conditions that can be exacerbated by drinking cold water.

Research in 2001 linked drinking cold water to migraine triggers in people who already had migraines.

A 2012 study said pain associated with achalasia, a condition that limits the body's ability to pass food through the esophagus, can also get worse when it gets used to drinking cold water with food.

Benefits of drinking cold water

In addition to the risks, drinking cold water also has health benefits.

According to a 2012 study, drinking cold water while exercising can help keep the body from overheating and make exercise sessions more effective.

This may be because drinking cold water makes it easier for the body to maintain a lower core temperature.

Does drinking cold water really help you lose weight?

Drinking water, whatever the temperature, has been linked to lower calorie intake throughout the day.

Drinking water as an alternative to sugary drinks is a good solution for digestion and maintaining a moderate weight, even if the water you drink is cold water.

Drinking cold water can also help burn some extra calories while digesting it because the body has to work harder to maintain its core temperature.

However, it seems that drinking cold water is not a powerful cada for weight loss.