Discover whether cold water or warm water is better for digestion. Learn how water temperature affects gut motility, bloating, and overall digestive comfort.
When it comes to digestion, the temperature of the water you drink can make a significant difference. The debate between cold water vs warm water has gained attention in wellness circles, with claims that warm water aids digestion while cold water is better for hydration. But what does science really say? AIIMS-trained hepatologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi explains how water temperature affects gut motility, bloating, and overall digestive comfort.
Warm Water vs Cold Water for Digestion
Warm water or room-temperature water is generally considered superior for digestion. According to Dr. Sethi, “Cold drinks can slow digestion temporarily. Starting your day with warm or room-temperature water supports gut motility.”
Gut motility refers to the movement of food through the digestive system. When gut motility slows down, it can lead to bloating, constipation, sluggish digestion, and discomfort. Warm water helps relax the muscles of the digestive tract, making digestion smoother and more efficient.
In contrast, drinking cold water may temporarily interfere with digestion. Cold beverages can cause the blood vessels in the stomach to constrict, reduce enzyme efficiency, and even solidify fats temporarily. This can slow down digestion and may result in bloating, gas, or cramps, particularly in individuals with sensitive stomachs.
Why Cold Water Isn’t Always Bad
Cold water has its own set of benefits. While warm water aids digestion, cold water is ideal for hydration, especially during exercise, hot weather, or fever. Drinking cold water helps cool the body faster, encourages higher fluid intake, and indirectly supports digestion by keeping the body well-hydrated.
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Dr. Sethi emphasizes, “Hydration is more important than water temperature. The gut doesn’t function properly when you’re dehydrated, whether you drink warm or cold water.”
How to Balance Cold Water vs Warm Water
The key is to match water temperature with your body’s needs. For optimal digestion:
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Drink warm or room-temperature water in the morning and around meals to support gut motility and reduce bloating.
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Drink cold water during workouts or hot weather to stay hydrated.
People with slow digestion, IBS, or frequent bloating may find warm water more comfortable. Those without digestive issues can alternate between warm and cold water based on personal preference.
Quick Takeaways: Warm Water vs Cold Water
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Warm water: Supports digestion, aids bowel movements, reduces bloating and discomfort.
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Cold water: Slows digestion temporarily, may worsen bloating in sensitive individuals, but excellent for hydration during heat or exercise.
In summary, while warm water vs cold water may seem like a wellness trend, it has practical implications for digestion. For those struggling with constipation or sluggish digestion, warm water is the better choice. For hydration and cooling, cold water works best. Ultimately, comfort and consistent hydration are the most important factors for gut health.
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