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Why Drinking Cold Water May Not Be Good For Your Digestive System, As Per Experts
Cold water feels like an oasis on a hot day but can do more harm to your body than good. Here's why experts advise against it.
When it comes to drinking water, people often have clear choices – some will go for a steaming mug while others cannot go without their icy-cold water. Regardless of the temperature, water is extremely essential for our health. Besides hydration, It helps maintain glowing skin, support proper digestion, and even manage headaches. But have you ever wondered why many wellness practices urge people to drink warm water instead of its cold counterpart? While it may feel refreshing, cold water might not be the best thing for your digestion. How does it affect your body? Let's find out what the experts have to say.
Also Read: Can Warm Water Drinks Actually Help You Lose Weight? Here's What You Need To Know...
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Why Cold Water Isn't Good For Your Digestive System
Cold water, or in fact, any cold foods like ice creams and sodas aren't good for your digestive system as it diminishes your agni, which is called digestive fire in Ayurveda.
Why Is Agni Important?
As per Ayurvedic health coach Dimple Jangda, Agni is important for maintaining and sustaining life, and also supporting vital functions like digestion, metabolism and immunity. Your body has a warm internal environment – 37 *C – that supports life.
What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Cold Water?
1. When you drink cold water or eat cold foods, it diminishes the Agni and also, weakens your digestive system, making it more sluggish and slow which leads to weight gain, indigestion and bloating.
2. Cold water interferes with the stomach acids and bile by diluting them which can lead to indigestion. Moreover, your body has to spend more energy to heat up the cold liquids in your stomach which can lead to lethargy, fatigue, and discomfort.
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What To Do Instead?
As per Jangda, instead of opting for cold water, include warm water in your daily diet to keep your digestive system happy.
1. Sip warm water during the meal if you have to drink water.
2. Sip warm water throughout the day, 30 minutes before and after a meal
3. You can also have a lot of warm, herbal teas with a dash of lemon juice to improve your digestion, metabolism and immunity.
How Does Warm Water Benefit Your Body?
Drinking warm water, even when you crave for cold, can do multiple benefits to your body.
1. Prevents Constipation
As per consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta, warm water is great for internal ‘cleansing' as it regulates bowel movement and prevents constipation.
2. Great For Glowing Skin
When you drink warm water, it raises your body temperature and helps release toxins. This detoxification is great for glowing skin.
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3. Stimulates Hunger
As per Bengaluru-based nutritionist Anju Sood, when you drink warm water, your body has to work harder to bring down its temperature. This helps start the metabolic system and stimulates hunger.
4. Clears Out Congestion
Warm water and its steam help clear out congestion and soothe an aching throat. Drinking it regularly will help prevent phlegm accumulation too.
So, choose warm water in your daily routine to keep your digestive system smooth and happy!
Also Read: Why You Should Start Your Day With Warm Jaggery (Gur) Water In Winter I How To Make It
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
