Does the Water Temperature That You Consume Affect Your Lifespan? What Health Experts Have to Say
Water is life—but might the temperature of water that you consume actually have a bearing on how long you live? It may seem crazy, but more and more health experts and wellness gurus are considering this question.
Cheers to that.
Let's dive into what the science (and ancient civilizations) are telling us about hot vs. cold water—and how it could affect your health and longevity.
---
Why Water Temperature Matters
We all know that hydration is the key to good health. But few of us pay much attention to whether the temperature of our drinking water could be important too.
In accordance with Dr. Maya Lin, an expert in holistic health, the water's temperature you consume can affect your body's internal functions. "Too cold water can shock the digestive system and slow things down. Slightly warm or room temperature water tends to support natural metabolic balance," she says.
When water is close to body temperature, around 37°C (98.6°F), your body won't need to exert itself to accommodate it. That saves energy and makes for smoother digestion and circulation.
---
What Traditional Medicine Has Been Saying All Along
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda have been recommending warm or hot water for thousands of years. Both these systems teach that cold water "damps" digestive fire and energy pathways.
According to these ancient principles:
Warm water activates circulation, detoxifies, and energizes digestive power.
Cold water retards digestion, constricts blood vessels, and creates body imbalances.
Present-day science is not on the same level that these archaic principles are, but at least there is some science backing their basics. Warm water, for example, has been found to relieve constipation, suppress mucous secretions, and even soothe the symptoms of swallowing disorder patients.
---
Does Water Temperature Have Any Effect On Lifespan?
So, what about the question on everyone's mind—does drinking cold or hot water actually affect how long you live?
While there is no concrete evidence that water temperature itself determines your lifespan, experts believe that it may have an indirect effect.
Dr. Ronald Kim
A cardiologist explains: "When you're chronically stressing the body—say, by consuming ice water when your system is already under strain—it might add up to long-term wear and tear. Warm water is gentler and more nourishing overall."
Decades of habits that reduce internal stress and promote digestion really do add up—potentially contributing to a longer, healthier life.
---
So when should you drink cold water?
Should You Give Up Cold Water?
Not necessarily. Context is everything.
There are times when cold water is a good thing—like after working out hard, or on an extremely hot summer day when your body needs to cool off. But if you're drinking ice water with each meal or gulping it at breakfast, it's time to rethink.
Drinking warm or room-temperature water is a small but powerful habit that can support digestion, circulation, and inner balance long term.
Final Thoughts
Water temperature is not the sole influence on your health or longevity, but it may have a surprisingly powerful role to play in your day-to-day health.
All about balance, as always. Pay attention to your body, and consult a health professional for advice that is appropriate for you.
Your glass of water—hot or cold—may be a daily decision with lasting impact.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0