As the scorching heat of summer intensifies, there is nothing as refreshing as a glass of chilled water. Yes, drinking cold water freshens the body; quenches thirst and confers an instant relief from the sweltering heat. Knowing the impacts of cold water on the system can help people make the right decisions about keeping themselves hydrated during the hot months.

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Is drinking chilled water in the summer beneficial for health? Or could it have any hidden side effects?  Dive into this article to break down the myths and science behind drinking cold water during this summer season.

Also Read: Hot or Cold Water? Why Right Temperature Matters From Beating Infections To Boosting Immunity

Benefits of Drinking Cold Water in Summer

Instant Hydration

Chilled water tends to cool the core body temperature at a higher rate than regular water. After outdoor workouts or routine activities in the heat, drinking cold water can bring down the body temperature effectively.

Promotes Alertness

Cold water acts as a natural stimulant, triggering alertness and making you feel nourished quickly. It can even help you stay energised and reduce fatigue in hot weather.

Motivates You to Drink More

Many people relish drinking cold water more than regular water, which encourages regular sips and averts dehydration.

Potential Side Effects and Concerns

Though cold water has its merits, it may not be suitable for everyone in all situations.

Digestive Concerns

Drinking very cold water, post-meals or during meals, can constrict blood vessels in the intestinal tract and impede the digestion process. This may lead to bloating, abdominal cramps or other digestive discomforts for some people.

Throat Irritation

For individuals prone to sore throats or respiratory infections, drinking cold water may irritate the throat lining, especially if taken very fast or regularly.

Also Read: How Much Water Is Enough? Is Bottled Water Safe? Here Are Some Cool Water Facts

Headaches

Drinking chilled water rapidly can cause an intense headache known as “brain freeze”, owing to sudden temperature changes affecting nerves in the mouth and head.

Worsens Existing Conditions

Individuals suffering from migraines, sinusitis or compromised immune systems may find that drinking cold water worsens their symptoms.

What Does Ayurveda Say?

According to Ayurveda, the holistic system of natural healing and traditional medicine, cold water can hinder the body's natural balance, “Agni” or digestive fire. Ayurveda principles recommend drinking lukewarm or room temperature water, especially around meals, to promote digestion and balance bodily functions.

What’s the Best Practice?

 There are numerous healthy tweaks for staying hydrated and nourished during this hot season. Drinking water at room temperature or slightly cold water is often suggested, as it is gentle on the system and improves digestion and keeps the body well hydrated. A better way to quench thirst is to increase your intake of watery fruits and veggies. A rich array of colourful fruits is loaded with water, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges. These are not only nourishing but also offer a good amount of vital vitamins and minerals. These fruits help maintain hydration levels and replenish fluid lost.

Every person's hydration needs are distinct and are influenced by several factors like age, health condition and physical activity. Hence, it is important to customise hydration practices to individual comfort and health needs. For a few, slightly cold waters may be acceptable, while others may benefit from room temperature fluids.

Points To Remember

• Avoid chilled water with meals; instead, go for normal water
• Never gulp down cold water quickly; sip slowly to avoid a sudden shock to your system
• Always listen to your body. If cold water causes discomfort, switch to room temperature or slightly cold water

Conclusion

Drinking chilled water in the summer season is safe for most people and offers quick respite from the scorching heat. However, moderation and timing are key. Always being mindful of your body’s response can help you stay healthy, hydrated and energised all throughout the season.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

The effect of water temperature and voluntary drinking on the post rehydration sweating

Abdollah Hosseinlou 1, Saeed Khamnei 2, Masumeh Zamanlu 3

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3762624/

Impact of Cold Water Intake on Environmental Perceptions, Affect, and Attention Depends on Climate Condition

Guillaume R. Coudevylle; Stéphane Sinnapah; Olivier Hue; Nicolas Robin; Maria Popa-Roch

The American Journal of Psychology (2020) 133 (2): 205–219.

https://scholarlypublishingcollective.org/uip/ajp/article-abstract/133/2/205/257618/Impact-of-Cold-Water-Intake-on-Environmental?redirectedFrom=fulltext