Everything you need to know about drinking water
The next time you drink water, pay attention to how your body responds to the temperature. Whether you prefer room temperature, warm or cold water, there’s a reason behind your chosen preference.
The stomach responds differently to each temperature of water, which in turn, can affect how your digestive system operates. While water is good for you no matter the temp, in some instances there is a higher chance of headaches or circulation issues when preferring one type of water over the other.
“All water is good,” Dr. Jill Blakeway, a licenced and board-certified doctor of acupuncture tells Bustle. “Cold water is refreshing and cooling. It’s great on a hot day and a good choice after exercise.”
But you can carry on drinking the temperature you prefer. “Drinking warm water may be better in some instances where as drinking cold water might also be more beneficial,” dietician Vanessa Rissetto tells Bustle. “It really boils down to preference and what you feel might be right for you.”
Here are 4 facts on cold versus room temperature water.
1. Room temperature water makes you less thirsty
Ever drink an entire litre of cold water in one hit but still find yourself feeling parched? Try room temp water instead. The warmer the water, the quicker it will quench your thirst. “This can be dangerous on days when your body is losing water through sweating to try to keep cool,” said Rissetto. “If you do opt to drink warm water, be aware that you may not feel thirsty as often as you should.”
2. Cold water is good for you after an intense workout
Water at any temperature will help you stay hydrated after a workout, but cold water in particular is a great idea if you’re feeling a little overheated. “Cold water is cooling so it can be helpful during exercise or when you are overheated,” said Dr. Blakeway.
3. Digestion problems? Drink room temperature water
If you find your digestive system isn’t working as well as it should, drinking a glass of room temperature or warm water will help aid feelings of heaviness. “In Chinese medicine we advocate drinking warm water because of its effect on the digestive system,” said Dr. Blakeway. “Drinking cold water can congeal the fats in food and because of that can make the digestive system sluggish.”
4. Cold water can be the reason behind your headache
Find yourself dealing with a splitting headache that came about with zero explanation? Could be the freezing cold water you’re drinking. The cooler the water, the higher chances of headaches and even migraines.
What temperature of water do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below.