Many people find that drinking hot water alone or with lemon has a soothing and beneficial effect. Hot water helps keep you hydrated, in addition to relieving congestion, improving digestion, relieving stress, and providing warmth. Drinking water, whether hot or cold, can help you stay healthy and hydrated. Some claim that hot water improves digestion, relieves congestion, and even promotes relaxation compared to cold water. Most of the health benefits of hot water are based on anecdotal evidence, as there is little scientific research in this area. However, many people find it helpful, especially in the morning or just before bed. Research from a Trusted Source recommends that hot beverages be served at temperatures between 54 and 71°C (130 and 160°F). Higher temperatures can cause burns. For an extra increase of vitamin C, try adding a lemon wedge to hot water to make lemon water.
1. It can relieve nasal congestion
- A cup of hot water creates steam. Deeply inhaling this light steam while holding a cup of hot water can help decongest your sinuses and even relieve headaches caused by sinusitis.
- Since the sinuses and throat are lined with mucus, drinking hot water can warm the area and pacify a sore throat caused by mucus buildup.
- According to a previous 2008 study published in Trusted Source, a hot beverage, such as tea, provides fast and long-lasting relief from runny nose, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. The hot beverage was shown to be more effective than the same beverage at room temperature.
2. It can aid digestion
- Drinking water helps your gastral system function properly. As water passes through your stomach and intestines, it helps your body better eliminate waste.
- Some people believe that drinking hot water is especially effective at activating the digestive system.
- The theory is that warm water can also dissolve and eliminate ingested food that the body has struggled to digest.
- More research is needed to confirm this benefit, although a 2016 study found that warm water may have a beneficial effect on bowel movements and gas after surgery.
- In the meantime, if you believe that drinking warm water helps with digestion, there’s no problem using it as a treatment.
3. It Can Improve Central Nervous System Function
- A lack of water, whether hot or cold, can harmfully affect the functioning of the nervous system, affecting mood and brain function.
- A 2019 study found that drinking water can improve central nervous scheme activity as well as mood.
- This study found that drinking water bigger participants’ brain activity during intense exercise and decreased their self-reported anxiety levels.
4. It Can Help Relieve Constipation
- Dehydration is a mutual cause of constipation. In many cases, drinking water is an actual way to relieve and prevent impairment. Staying hydrated helps soften stools and make them easier to pass.
- Drinking warm water regularly can help maintain regularity.
5. Maintains Hydration
- While some evidence suggests that cold water is best for rehydration, drinking water at any infection will help you stay hydrated.
- The Institution of Medicine recommends that women drink 2.3 liters (78 ounces) of water a day and men 3.3 liters (112 ounces). These numbers include water from foods like fruits, vegetables, and any foods that melt.
- You also need a lot more water if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, exercise, or work in hot conditions.
- Try starting your day with a serving of warm water and ending it with another. Your body needs water to perform almost all of its basic functions, so its value is undeniable.
6. Reduces shivering in the cold
- 2017 study. Trustworthy Source
- PubMed Central
- A highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health
- Go to source
- showed that while the body’s natural response to the cold is to shiver, drinking warm fluids can help reduce it.
- Study participants wore suits that circulated water just above freezing and then drank water at various temperatures, including up to 52°C (125°F).
- Researchers found that drinking hot water quickly helped participants work less hard to maintain their body temperature. This could be beneficial, the study notes, for those who work or exercise in cold climates.
7. Improves circulation
- Healthy blood flow affects everything from blood pressure to heart disease risk.
- Taking a warm bath helps blood vessels (arteries and veins) expand and transport blood more efficiently throughout the body.
- Drinking warm water may have a similar effect. However, there is little research to support the effectiveness of this method.
- Additionally, the warmth of warm water or a bath earlier bed can help you relax and prepare for restful sleep.
8. It Can Reduce Stress
- Because drinking warm water improves central nervous system function, you may experience less anxiety.
- According to a 2014 study, drinking less water reduced feelings of calm, contentment, and positive emotions.
- Therefore, staying hydrated can improve mood and relaxation.
9. It can help the body’s detoxification systems
- While there’s no definitive evidence to support the benefits of hot water in this regard, a 2020 study by Trusted Source found that drinking more water can help protect the kidneys and dilute waste in the blood.
- Drinking water is important for flushing waste from the body, according to the Arthritis Foundation. It also helps fight inflammation, keep joints well lubricated, and prevent gout.
10. It can help relieve the symptoms of achalasia
- Achalasia is a condition in which the esophagus makes it problematic for food to pass into the stomach.
- People with achalasia have difficulty swallowing. They may feel as if food is stuck in the esophagus instead of passing into the stomach. This is called dysphagia.
- Researchers aren’t sure why this happens, but a previous 2012 study found that drinking warm water may help people with achalasia digest food more easily.
Conclusion
The simple habit of drinking warm water every morning can provide numerous health benefits that contribute to overall well-being. From improving digestion and boosting metabolism to improving circulation and detoxifying the body, warm water is a natural and gentle way to start your day. It also helps maintain hydration and can promote healthier skin, better bowel movements, and greater mental clarity. While it’s not a cure-all, incorporating warm water into your morning routine is a small but important step toward a healthier lifestyle. As with any wellness practice, consistency is key, and when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, the benefits can be even more noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it good to drink warm water in the morning on an empty stomach?
Drinking warm water in the morning helps activate the digestive system, eliminate toxins, and speed up the metabolism. It also prepares the body for food and improves bowel regularity.
2. How does warm water help digestion?
Warm water stimulates the digestive tract and helps digest food more efficiently. It can also relieve constipation and reduce bloating by keeping the bowels active.
3. Can warm water help with weight loss?
Yes, warm water can help with weight loss by speeding up the metabolism, promoting satiety, and breaking down fat when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
4. Is warm water better than cold water in the morning?
Warm water is generally gentler on the stomach and more effective at stimulating the internal organs. Cold water can upset the digestive system and slow digestion immediately after waking up.
5. Does warm water improve skin health?
Yes, staying hydrated with warm water can help eliminate toxins from the body, which over time can result in clearer skin and a better complexion.
6. How much warm water should I drink in the morning?
It is recommended to drink approximately one glass (230-350 ml) of warm water upon waking. You can gradually increase the amount, depending on your well-being.
7. Is there anything I can add to warm water for additional benefits?
Yes, adding lemon, honey, or a pinch of turmeric can enhance the detoxifying and digestive properties of warm water. However, warm water alone is effective on its own.
8. Are there any side effects to drinking warm water daily?
Warm water is safe and beneficial for most people. However, you should avoid water that is too hot, as it can damage internal tissues. Always ensure the water temperature is comfortable.
9. How long can you expect improvement?
Some benefits, such as improved digestion and hydration, can be noticed in just a few days. Long-term improvements, such as skin health or metabolism, may require several weeks of regular practice.
10. Should people with certain medical conditions consult a doctor before starting this habit?
Yes, people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or fluid restrictions, should consult a doctor before making changes to their daily hydration routine.
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