Opinions online seem pretty divided when it comes down to the right temperature for drinking water. However, all opinions aside, when it comes down to it- there is scientific evidence that supports drinking your water cold.
With a shallow dive into the internet, you become surrounded by myths surrounding the proper temperature for drinking water. Many suggest drinking water at room temperature because they believe drinking it cold could cause mucus buildup. And others suggest cold water may be bad for your digestion.
But what is the truth of it all?
In a recent study that was published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, scientists gave different temperatures of drinking water to participants. What they discovered was when they gave the participants water at 60 degrees and lower, the participants sweated less. Their conclusion was that cold tap water is best for rehydration, especially in comparison to other temperatures.
Not only that- but other studies have found that cold water could be best for workout recovery in athletes.
In the Human Kinetics Journal, a study discovered that a 10-minute cold shower given 20 minutes after exercise helped with hydration. And 10 minute cold showers are also beneficial for muscle recovery in athletes, according to another study published in the European Journal of Applied Psychology.
With that being said- drinking water at any temperature will hydrate you. And staying hydrated is important for the proper functioning of your body.
It keeps your organs regulated and keeps your body temperature regulated as well. According to Harvard Health, staying hydrated can even help your body to prevent infection.
Some myths that are based on Ayurvedic medicine state that cold water causes an imbalance in the body and slows down digestion. However, there is little scientific evidence that suggests that cold water is bad for your body or digestion.
Of course, there are times in which warm water might be better, such as when you have a cold or sore throat. But there is no scientific evidence that shows that drinking cold water causes a sore throat or even makes one worse.
When it comes down to it, preference is where the major division lies.
I enjoy a bit of hot water with lemon during the winter months, but would never drink hot water when it’s warm outside.
Regardless of what temperature you decide to go with- just drink water. Staying hydrated is important, and while cold water may hydrate you better or faster, no matter what temperature you drink your water, it will do the job. You may just see more benefits by drinking it at a cooler temperature.