Tag: Cold vs warm water

According to numerous studies, the body typically processes and absorbs room-temperature water quickest compared to very hot or cold water. The popular belief that is warm water absorbed faster is a common misconception that requires a closer look at the science of gastric emptying and small intestine absorption.

According to a 2020 study, consuming very cold water can slow gastric contractions, which is a key process in digestion. This provides a hint as to why many people consciously opt for room temperature water instead of chilled beverages, prioritizing comfort and efficiency over immediate refreshment.

Scientific studies show that the most effective temperature range for water absorption is between 10°C and 22°C. This suggests that 10°C might fall within an optimal range, but is the ideal temperature for drinking water 10°C for every situation, or does personal preference and circumstance play a larger role?

According to a 2012 study, drinking cold water during an exercise session can help keep your body from overheating. However, many health experts and traditional medicine practices suggest that for daily hydration, cold water is worse for you than room-temperature water, primarily concerning its effects on digestion and the body's systems.

While drinking warm water is a practice with roots in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, modern science offers a more nuanced view of the benefits. Is there an advantage to drinking warm water for digestion, detoxification, and overall wellness, or is adequate hydration at any temperature the most critical factor for health?