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Is Drinking Cold Water Bad For You?
- Richard J Yun
- Jan 6, 2020
- 2 min read
Coldwater is refreshing, and 9 times out of 10 I would prefer drinking cold water over warm or hot water.
But there is some debate about the best temperature for water to be when people drink it. Some advocates believe that drinking cold water can be bad for you.
Risks of drinking cold water
Some research suggests that people with conditions that affect the esophagus, or food pipe, such as achalasia, should avoid drinking cold water. Achalasia is a rare condition that can make swallowing food and drink difficult.
One 2001 study involving 669 women suggests that drinking cold water may cause headaches in some people.
The researchers reported that 7.6 percent of participants experienced a headache after drinking 150 milliliters of ice-cold water through a straw. They also found that participants with active migraine were twice as likely to get a headache after drinking cold water as those who had never had a migraine.
Some people claim that consuming cold drinks and foods can cause a sore throat or cold. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
In ancient Chinese medicine, drinking cold water with hot food is seen as creating an imbalance. Typically, meals in the Chinese culture are served with warm water or hot tea, instead. This belief is mirrored in several other cultures around the world. (healthline)
Benefits of drinking cold water
Some studies suggest that drinking colder water during exercise may improve a person's performance and endurance.
For example, a 2012 study involving 45 physically fit males found that drinking cold water during exercise significantly reduced the rise in core body temperature compared with drinking room temperature water.
For example, a 2012 study involving 45 physically fit males found that drinking cold water during exercise significantly reduced the rise in core body temperature compared with drinking room temperature water.
People may find drinking warm or hot water soothing, especially in colder months, while cool water can be more refreshing in warmer weather. Drinking warm water may temporarily improve circulation by causing the arteries and veins to expand.
A 2013 study suggests that the optimal water temperature for rehydration following exercise maybe 16°C, which is around the same temperature as cool tap water.
Drinking cold water during exerciseTrusted Source can help keep your body from overheating and make your workout session more successful. This is probably because drinking cold water makes it easier for your body to maintain lower core temperature.
So What?
There is no right or wrong answer. Coldwater has it's benefits and while some cultures regard drinking cold water as a significant health risk for everyone, there isn’t a lot of evidence to support that claim. There are plenty of benefits to drinking warm water, though.
As for the benefits of drinking cold water? The same benefits of drinking regular room-temperature water: Keeping you hydrated and giving you more energy.
I'm a UofT student and this is a student exploration project sponsored by KiImpact.com
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