Cold Water vs. Warm Water: Which is Better For Your Health?

Water is essential for life, and the refreshing feeling of a cold glass of water to quench thirst is undeniable. But is cool water always the optimal choice? Or are there specific situations where warm water might be more beneficial for your health?

Experts often debate the ideal water temperature for optimal hydration. Our internal body temperature hovers around $37.0\text{°C }(98.6\text{°F})$, significantly warmer than a typical glass of cool water. Ancient medical systems, such as Ayurveda (originating in India over 3,000 years ago) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), have long emphasized the importance of temperature and its effects on the body, suggesting that warm water holds unique benefits in certain contexts.

Ultimately, staying adequately hydrated and listening to your body's innate wisdom are paramount. When working out or on a hot day, ice water often feels most appealing. Conversely, when battling a cold, warm water is usually preferred. Understanding the science behind the best times for cold versus warm water can help you make informed choices.

Best Times to Drink Cold Water

1. During Exercise During physical activity, your core body temperature rises. Sweating helps cool the body, but it also leads to significant losses of water and electrolytes that need replenishment. Sipping on cold water during a workout both rehydrates the body and effectively helps to lower core body temperature. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition compared the effects of room temperature water and cold water during workouts. Researchers found that participants who consumed cold water were able to maintain a lower core temperature 50% longer than the group drinking room temperature water (1).

    

2. When You Have a Fever Drinking cold water is an effective method for helping to cool down the body when you have a fever. Staying well-hydrated is crucial during a fever, as your body works diligently to combat whatever foreign invaders are causing the illness. When you're overheated, cold water can provide immense relief. Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon and a pinch of sea salt to help replenish lost electrolytes.

    

3. For Weight Loss Drinking cold water has been shown to give your metabolism a slight boost, potentially helping to burn an additional 70 calories per day (2, 3). While not a miraculous cure for obesity, these extra calories burned can add up over time. Considering that an average person (weighing around 155 lbs) burns about 70 calories during a 15-minute walk, incorporating ice water can be a simple and effective way to contribute to calorie expenditure when aiming for weight loss.

    

Best Times to Drink Warm or Hot Water