Some people enjoy sipping on hot lemon water or plain hot water. Furthermore, drinking hot water or lukewarm water regularly might improve digestion, ease congestion, lower stress levels, and control body temperature, which helps you stay hydrated. Water is vital for maintaining hydration and promoting general health, regardless of temperature. Some folks believe hot water works better than cold water to relax clear congestion and aid digestion. This article looks at ten benefits of hot water.
Benefits of Drinking Hot Water During Pregnancy
Due to a lack of scientific investigation, the majority of the advantages of hot water are personal. But many people feel the benefits, especially first thing in the morning or before bed. The approximate temperature for drinking hot water is between 130-160°F (54-71°C). Above that and you’ll burn or scald yourself. For an extra boost and some vitamin C, try adding a squeeze of lemon to hot water and make lemon water.
Promotes Digestive Health
Water consumption keeps the digestive tract functioning. The body is better equipped to get rid of waste as the water passes through your stomach and intestines. Some people believe that drinking hot water can activate the digestive system more effectively. Food that your body feels difficult to digest can also be dissolved and dispersed by hot water.
Warm water may help with gas ejection and bowel movements after surgery, according to a 2016 study, although further research is needed to validate this benefit. In the meantime, there is no harm in utilising hot water as a cure if you find that it aids in digestion.
Helps Unclog Nasal Passages and Soothe Throat
The warm vapour from hot water easily unclogs the blocks in the nasal passage that cause serious respiratory issues. The mild vapour reduces the clogging of mucus in the nose, which makes breathing easier and smoother. The tight pressure and pain in the nasal passage can also be cleared. Drinking warm water also makes you feel more at ease by calming your throat and lessening irritation from mucus accumulation. Warm water can be a natural solution for sinus problems since it relaxes the entire upper respiratory system and helps clear the airways, making breathing easier and improving your mood.
Boosts Nervous System Performance
Lack of hot or cold water might harm your nervous system, which can affect your mood and mental capacity. A 2019 study found that staying properly hydrated enhances nervous system functioning, reduces anxiety, and boosts brain performance during difficult tasks.
Natural Ways to Reduce Constipation
Constipation can result from a lack of water; however, drinking water makes stools softer and easier to pass, which helps to avoid and alleviate the condition. Regular bowel motions may also be facilitated by drinking hot water.
Maintains Hydration in the Body
Any water temperature will hydrate you, but cold water is ideal for rehydration. Men need 3.3 litres of water daily, including what comes from food, while women need 2.3 litres. Extreme heat, physical activity, and pregnancy or lactation require more water. Use hot water at the beginning and end of your day to support your body’s essential processes.
Reduce Shivering in Cold Weather
According to a 2017 study, warm fluids help minimise shivering in cold weather. Warm water (varying from 126°F to 52°C) helped participants maintain body heat while they were subjected to nearly freezing temperatures while drinking fluids of various degrees. This can undoubtedly be useful for sportsmen and workers who are exposed to frigid temperatures.
Encourages Improved Blood Circulation
To lower blood flow pressure and prevent heart disease, effective blood circulation is essential. This promotes vein and artery dilatation, which enhances the body’s circulation. In the same manner, drinking hot water will be helpful, though its efficacy has not yet been established. Additionally, warm water or a bath before bed might support your feeling of relaxation and promote restful, deep sleep at night.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Water that has been heated can improve the way the central nervous system works, which lowers anxiety. According to a 2014 study, dehydration can reduce feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and calm. Maintaining proper hydration can improve your mood and promote relaxation regardless of the climate.
Promotes Joint Health and Detoxification
A 2020 study indicates that increasing water intake may assist in safeguarding kidney health by dissolving waste products in the blood, yet there is no concrete evidence that hot water delivers further special benefits. Additionally, the Arthritis Foundation emphasises the need to be hydrated to help the body rid itself of toxins, lower inflammation, lubricate joints, and prevent gout.
Reduces Achalasia Symptoms
Achalasia is a disorder in which food cannot be pushed down the oesophagus to the stomach, leading to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) along with the patient tending to feel that food is caught in the throat. A 2012 study found that drinking warm water eases digestion in patients suffering from achalasia, although the reason remains unclear.
Risks of Burns and Scalding
Generally speaking, drinking lukewarm water while pregnant is safe. Just watch out that the water doesn’t get too hot and burn the inside of your mouth or throat. Because a mother has to eat for two, if the water is hot and your mouth burns, you can have blisters or other mouth pain, which will impair your diet and endanger the unborn child. To reduce the hazards, simply remember the previously mentioned tips and take care when following a pregnant diet.
Important Points to Keep in Mind
It’s safe to drink hot water when pregnant, but bear the following in mind, particularly in the latter stages:
- Drink water that is just warm enough to sip easily.
- Use boiling or filtered water instead of tap water.
- Split the water you are consuming the whole day, instead of drinking it all at once.
- Add watermelon, cucumber, or lemon juice to plain water if it seems boring and make it more tasty.
Conclusion
There has been very little research to compare hot water with cold water; however, it is considered generally safe to drink hot water and can help ensure hydration throughout the day. Drinking hot water easily becomes a habit. Begin your day with a cup of boiled water cooled down a little. Prefer not to drink tea or coffee? Try hot water squeezed with some lemon.
Torment your head and your mind with some light stretches. It will be regained with energy and make you feel ready to conquer the day. Before bed, sipping warm water is a lovely way to end your day. Knowing about the health benefits will make sure you have a nice sleep.
