She Strengthens

The Surprising Benefits of Drinking Hot Water

When it comes to staying hydrated, most of us reach for a cold glass of water. But what about hot water? Does it have any benefits that make it worth considering? The answer is yes! From congestion relief to improved digestion, hot water has a range of advantages that make it a great addition to your daily routine.

Relief from Congestion

A stuffy nose is no fun, but hot water can help. Inhaling the steam from hot water can loosen up your sinuses and provide relief from sinus headaches. Plus, warm drinks in general have been shown to alleviate cold symptoms, including clearing mucus buildup, stemming runny noses, and pausing coughing fits.

Constipation Relief

Dehydration is a common cause of constipation, and drinking water of any temperature can help get your bowels moving again. However, hot water may be particularly effective at breaking down food and waste in your digestive system. Studies have found that warm water is better at dissolving substances, including sugar, which can be difficult for your body to digest.

Smooth Digestion

The benefits of hot water for your digestive system don’t stop at the bowels. Warm water can help ease the digestive process by breaking down food more efficiently. Additionally, drinking hot water may boost nervous system function, which can have a positive impact on your mood and brain activity.

Staying Hydrated

While cold water may be better for hydration, drinking water of any temperature is essential for your body. Aim to drink at least 78 ounces (2.3 liters) of water per day if you’re a woman, and 112 ounces (3.3 liters) if you’re a man. Remember, dehydration can have serious consequences, including damage to your nervous system and even death.

Reducing Shivering

When you’re cold, your body shivers to try and warm itself up. Drinking hot water can raise your body’s core temperature and reduce shivering. This is especially useful for people who work outdoors in cold temperatures.

Improved Blood Circulation

Warm temperatures can cause your arteries and veins to expand, increasing blood flow. While there’s limited scientific evidence to support this, it’s possible that drinking hot water has a similar effect. Healthy circulation is essential for preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Reducing Stress

Drinking hot water may have a calming effect on your nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, some studies have found a correlation between drinking water and lower rates of depression.

Detoxification

While there’s no direct link between hot water and detoxification, drinking water is essential for your kidneys to filter toxins from your blood. Warm water can also raise your body temperature, causing you to sweat, which may have additional health benefits.

Relieving Achalasia Symptoms

Achalasia is a condition that affects the lower esophageal sphincter, making it difficult to swallow. Drinking warm water may help ease achalasia symptoms by relaxing the sphincter and allowing food to pass through more easily.

Enhancing Tea and Coffee Consumption

Let’s not forget the joys of hot beverages like tea and coffee! Both have been shown to have numerous health benefits, from prolonging lifespan to reducing the risk of serious diseases.

Better Sleep

Finally, drinking hot water before bed can promote a good night’s sleep. Warm milk, in particular, is known for its sleepytime powers.

Possible Risks

Remember to be careful when drinking hot water, as it can cause burns or scalding. Avoid drinking water that’s hotter than 160°F (71°C), and be aware of the signs of overhydration, including headaches, cold skin, and a puffy face.

Takeaway

Drinking hot water is a simple way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. While more research is needed to confirm some of the benefits, the existing evidence suggests that hot water is a great addition to your daily routine. So go ahead, grab a cup of hot water, and reap the rewards!