Indeed we are aware that water is essential for our body, and we must have heard that drinking 8 glasses of water a day is an essential requirement for the human body, but how many of us implement that? Well, apart from the importance of drinking water, we shall discuss the benefits of drinking hot water in this blog.
Hydration is important for our body and it primarily depends on the intake of water, regardless of its temperature. Both cold and warm water can effectively quench your thirst and contribute to overall hydration. So when we are discussing about the benefits of drinking hot water, we will be focusing beyond hydration.
Overview
There are plenty of reasons and benefits for drinking warm water, the most important being soothing the throat, aiding digestion, and promoting relaxation. Most of us prefer chilled or normal-temperature water and end up neglecting the hot water benefits. The benefits of drinking hot water include weight management, digestive health, detoxification, improved skin health and many more. While drinking hot water can be beneficial in many ways, it’s important to be cautious as well; excessive consumption may lead to burns or scalds. Developing a routine of sipping warm water throughout the day can help maintain hydration and support overall well-being.
17 Proven Benefits of Drinking Hot Water
Let us learn about the benefits of drinking hot water and understand how it can help us in various ways. Here’s a list of 16 benefits of drinking warm water;
- Boost Immunity
- Helps in Detoxification
- Improved Digestion
- Keeps Kidney Healthy
- Helps to Lose Weight
- Good for Respiratory Health
- Calmness and Relaxation
- Improves Circulation
- Relieve Nasal Congestion
- Keeps You Hydrated
- Beneficial For Gut Health
- Fights Ageing Skin
- May Decrease Stress Levels
- Reduce Inflammation
- Soothing Menstrual Cramp
- Ease Bloating
- May Help Relieve Symptoms of Achalasia
1. Boost Immunity
When we discuss the benefits of drinking hot water and how it boosts immunity, scientifically it focuses on how hot water benefits blood circulation. Hot water expands our blood vessels, alleviates pain and makes us feel better.
Hot water helps to boost immunity through various indirect ways; keeps you hydrated, helps you get relief from Congestion, eases the digestion process, promotes sweating which detoxifies and lastly reduces stress. Not only hot water but many homemade drinks help you boost immunity. Explore the Benefits of Jeera Water in improving the immune system. To sum up, here’s how warm water benefits the immune system;
- Improves hydration
- Helps to loosen mucus and relieve congestion
- Improves blood circulation
2. Helps In Detoxification
When we talk about body detoxification, we are referring to the process of removing or eliminating toxins and harmful substances from the body. Or simply, supporting the excretion system of the body.
This is done when we sweat (skin), urinate (kidneys), bowel movement (colon), and when we exhale (lungs). Detox water recipes and hot water benefits the body by removing chemicals in natural ways; activating the hypothalamus by raising our body temperature which promotes sweating. Also, eases digestion which helps to flush out toxins at the earliest. To sum up, here’s how warm water benefits in detoxification;
- Enhances the process of excretion in our body
- Helps the body sweat, which flushes out toxins
3. Improved Digestion
Water helps to break down the food, and the temperature is not a concern for the body. But hot water benefits and makes this process (breaking down food to energy) faster than usual. In this way, your body requires less effort to digest food as compared to when you take cold or normal-temperature water. The overall scope of improving digestion includes consuming fiber rich foods, drinking hot water and chewing your food properly. To sum up, here’s how hot water benefits and improves digestion;
- Helps to break down food faster than usual speed
- Reduces the efforts the body requires to digest food
- Improves intestinal movements and gas expulsion
4. Keeps Kidney Healthy
We discussed how hot water benefits the body in the process of detoxification. Now, when focusing on how the benefits of drinking warm water support kidney health, it simply means warm water fastens the filtration process of kidneys. It stimulates urine production and promotes the removal of metabolic waste products. Not only this but a few studies support that warm water helps you get relief from Kidney Stones. To sum up, here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water support kidney health;
- Stimulates urine production, which is healthy for the kidney
- Relief from Kidney stones
- Improves blood circulation, which enhances and fastens kidney filtration
5. Helps To Lose Weight
One of the known and proven benefits of drinking warm water in the morning is weight loss. Hot warm supports our weight loss effects in direct ways, it breaks down fat molecules, helps you feel fuller which controls appetite, easy detoxification and promotes better sleep essential for weight loss. Hot water is one of the most effective weight loss drinks one may add to his body. To sum it all up, here’s how warm water benefits your weight loss efforts;
- Breaks down fat molecules quickly
- Promotes Satiety
- Helps to improve sleep quality, hence reducing stress and anxiety
Explore more about the weight loss journey through educational resources like Weightloss blogs, books and the guidance of professionals to lose weight!
6. Good For Respiratory Health
One of the most common things that hamper the natural breathing process is when you have a cold or the flu, your airways can become congested with mucus and cause difficulty in breathing. Drinking warm water and gargling with it can help get rid of the mucus.
Also, warm water improves blood flow, which sends more oxygen to your lungs. It makes your immune system stronger to fight off viruses in your lungs and helps your body burn calories faster. To sum up, here’s how warm water benefits respiratory health;
- Soothes sore throats
- Increases blood pressure, which delivers more oxygen to the lungs
- Helps to lose mucus in a shorter time
7. Calmness And Relaxation
There are various ways through which the benefits of drinking hot water make you feel more relaxed, and calm you. The first and most important reason is it improves your blood circulation. Better blood circulation transfers oxygen to all parts of our body including the brain. This helps you think clearly, focus and relax. Not only this, hot water benefits you by releasing endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects. Your muscles are also relaxed by drinking warm water. To sum up, here are how the benefits of drinking hot water include calmness and relaxation;
- It can help to increase blood flow
- It can help to release endorphins
- It can help to reduce muscle tension
- It can help to improve sleep
8. Improves Circulation
Hot water is a vasodilator, which means it expands blood vessels. Hot water benefits the circulation by causing your blood vessels to expand or dilate. When you drink hot water, it raises your body temperature slightly, and in response, your blood vessels naturally widen. Improved circulation means that your body can efficiently deliver oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and organs, supporting overall health. Additionally, better circulation can help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation. To sum up, here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water improve the circulatory system;
- Hot water is a vasodilator, which means it expands blood vessels
- Reduces blood viscosity, which makes it easier for blood to flow
- Hot Water benefits you by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow
Introduce exercises, a healthy food chart and consult a professional for problems related to blood circulation, to prevent chronic diseases and problems related to heart health.
9. Relieves Nasal Congestion
During a cold or flu, hot water benefits you in several ways if you take it in regular intervals and in a proper manner. Drinking warm water can help thin mucus in your throat and nasal passages. This makes it easier for mucus to drain and reduces congestion. The heat from hot water may cause blood vessels in the nasal passages to dilate or expand. Furthermore, warm water benefits in reducing inflammation, helping you breathe better. To sum up, here’s how hot water benefits you by relieving nasal congestion;
- Turns the mucus thinner, which makes it easier to flush out
- Reduces inflammation, and helps you breathe better
- Enhances blood flow, which promotes healing in the inflamed areas
10. Keeps You Hydrated
Drinking water at any temperature will keep you hydrated, it primarily depends on the intake of fluids, regardless of their temperature. When you drink hot water, you are still consuming water, which plays a crucial role in maintaining your body’s hydration levels and you get the benefits of drinking hot water.
Sometimes you may not realise, but the cause of drinking less water could be the temperature. The temperature and benefits of drinking hot water may help you to consume more water than you usually take, and you may find it more enjoyable to drink than cold water.
11. Beneficial For Gut Health
One of the common benefits of drinking hot water is that you may improve your gut health. Hot water helps you break down food faster than usual, which improves digestion; it promotes detoxification that helps you flush out toxins; you may get rid of indigestion. Furthermore, it has a soothing effect on the digestive tract, potentially reducing intestinal cramps and discomfort. To sum up, here’s how warm water benefits your gut health;
- Helps to get rid of indigestion
- Reduces Intestinal cramps
- Promotes better digestion
- Detoxifies the body
Learn this Garden Green Salad Recipe that may help you improve your gut health, as greens are beneficial for overall health and gut health.
12. Fights Ageing Skin
The benefits of drinking hot water can contribute to fighting skin ageing by promoting better hydration. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing dryness, which can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. The benefits of drinking warm water include improving blood circulation, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells, and promoting a healthy complexion. To sum up, here’s how fighting ageing skin counts as one of the benefits of drinking hot water;
- Keeps the skin hydrated and moisture
- Maintains skin elasticity
- Improves blood circulation, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells
13. May Decrease Stress Levels
The benefits of drinking warm water include decreasing stress levels by promoting relaxation. The warmth from hot water can have a calming effect on the body and mind, reducing muscle tension and soothing the nervous system. It is one of the many benefits of drinking warm water in the morning that triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters that can help alleviate stress and anxiety. To sum up, here’s how warm water benefits you in controlling stress;
- Reduces muscle tension and soothes the nervous system
- Releases endorphins, that lift your mood
- Improves blood circulation, which helps you feel and think better
You may also explore how coconut water can help you feel better and whether Is Coconut Water Good For Diabetes?
14. Reduce Inflammation
One of the many benefits of drinking hot water is to reduce inflammation. Warm water benefits and can reduce inflammation through its ability to improve blood circulation, which helps transport immune cells and nutrients to inflamed areas, aiding in the body’s natural healing processes. Additionally, the heat from hot water also encourages sweating, aiding in the elimination of toxins that can contribute to inflammation. To sum up, here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water help you reduce inflammation;
- Improves blood flow which heals the inflamed areas
- Detoxifies the body to remove toxins
- The benefits of drinking hot water include reducing stress, which can exacerbate inflammation
15. Soothing Menstrual Cramp
Apart from the benefits of drinking hot water to cure cramps, keeping a hot bag in the abdomen area of pain may also help to reduce the cramps. Drinking hot water can provide relief from menstrual cramps due to its soothing and muscle-relaxing properties. The warmth of hot water helps increase blood flow to the abdominal area, reducing muscle tension and alleviating pain. It can also promote relaxation, easing stress and anxiety often associated with menstrual discomfort. To sum up, here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water may help you with menstrual Vcramps;
- Reduces muscle tension and alleviates pain
- Helps you reduce stress and anxiety
- Contributes to overall comfort and relief from cramps
16. Ease Bloating
The benefits of drinking hot water helps you ease bloating by promoting better digestion and relaxation of the digestive muscles. When you consume hot water, it helps to relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, aiding in the movement of food and gas through the digestive system. This can alleviate feelings of fullness and discomfort caused by trapped gas. Furthermore, the benefits of drinking hot water can stimulate blood flow to the abdominal area, enhancing circulation and facilitating the removal of waste and gas from the digestive tract. To sum here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water help with bloating;
- Helps to relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract
- Enhances circulation and facilitates the removal of waste
- Alleviate feelings of fullness and discomfort caused by trapped gas
17. May Help Relieve Symptoms Of Achalasia
The benefits of drinking hot water may be relief from symptoms of achalasia, a rare swallowing disorder characterized by difficulty in moving food from the oesophagus into the stomach due to impaired muscle function in the lower oesophagal sphincter. The warmth of hot water can help relax the oesophagal muscles, potentially making it easier for food and liquids to pass through the narrowed oesophagus. While hot water alone is not a cure for achalasia, it may offer temporary relief by promoting muscle relaxation and facilitating the swallowing process. To sum up, here’s how the benefits of drinking hot water may help you relieve the symptoms of Achalasia;
- The warmth of hot water can help relax the esophageal muscles
- It temporarily reliefs by promoting muscle relaxation and facilitating the swallowing process
What Can You Mix with Hot Water to Make It More Beneficial?
Mixing various ingredients with hot water benefits in different ways. You can add these ingredients to get the benefits of drinking warm water in the morning. Here are some popular options and their potential advantages:
- Hot Water with Lemon
- Hot Water with Honey
- Hot Water with Cinnamon
- Hot Water with Garlic
- Hot Water with Apple cider vinegar
Let us understand the steps to make each of these drinks to get the benefits of drinking hot water!
Hot Water With Lemon
Benefits: Lemon adds vitamin C and antioxidants to hot water, aiding immune function and skin health. It can also promote digestion and provide a refreshing flavour.
Steps: There are no complex steps required to be followed, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a cup of hot water. Mix well and enjoy to get the benefits of drinking hot water! Follow this lemon water recipe to make a perfect lemon water drink with hot water.
Hot Water With Honey
Benefits: Honey is soothing and may help relieve a sore throat, reduce coughing, and provide natural sweetness without refined sugars. It can also offer mild antimicrobial properties.
Steps: Add a teaspoon of honey to a cup of hot water and stir until dissolves to get the benefits of drinking hot water
Hot Water With Cinnamon
Benefits: Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels and may improve insulin sensitivity. It adds a warm, spicy flavour to hot water.
Steps: To benefits of drinking hot water with cinnamon, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon into a cup of hot water and mix thoroughly.
Hot Water With Garlic
Benefits: Garlic has antimicrobial properties and contains allicin, which may support the immune system. It can help combat colds and infections.
Steps: Crush a small garlic clove and steep it in hot water for a few minutes before drinking.
Hot Water With Apple Cider Vinegar
Benefits: Apple cider vinegar is believed to aid digestion, promote weight loss, and balance pH levels in the body. It’s also rich in probiotics. Explore the Benefits & Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar as well!
Steps: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a cup of hot water and mix well. You can sweeten it with honey if desired and get the potential benefits of drinking hot water.
Side Effects Of Drinking Hot Water
The primary risk associated with consuming hot water is the potential for burns or scalds, especially if the water is excessively hot. Accidental contact with very hot water can cause burns to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, leading to tissue damage and discomfort. It’s essential to use caution when preparing to harness the benefits of drinking hot water. Additionally, extremely hot beverages might contribute to heat stress in some individuals, potentially causing dehydration and discomfort.
Tips For Drinking Hot Water For Maximum Benefits
Now that we have understood the benefits of drinking hot water, let us look at some tips to get the maximum benefits of drinking hot water;
- Check the Temperature: Before drinking, ensure that the hot water has cooled to a safe temperature that won’t cause burns. A comfortable temperature to get the benefits of drinking hot water could be around 120-140°F (49-60°C).
- Use Insulated Containers: When carrying or storing hot water, use insulated containers or thermoses to maintain the desired temperature and prevent accidental spills.
- Be Cautious with Boiling Water: Boiling water is extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before consuming or use it to make hot beverages at a safer temperature.
- Listen to Your Body: Everyone’s tolerance for hot temperatures is different. Pay attention to how your body reacts to hot water and adjust accordingly to prevent discomfort or injury.
- Seek Medical Attention for Burns: If you accidentally burn yourself with hot water, seek medical attention if the burn is severe or covers a large area. Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for several minutes first.
FAQs
Are There Any Side Effects Of Drinking Hot Water?
Besides the benefits of drinking hot water, you may wonder if there are any side effects of it. While drinking hot water is generally safe, the primary risk is the potential for burns or scalds if the water is too hot. It’s crucial to ensure a safe drinking temperature to avoid injury.
Can I Have Hot Water Every Day?
Yes, you can drink hot water every day as long as it is at a safe and comfortable temperature. In fact, many people find the various benefits of drinking hot water including digestion and relaxation.
What Is The Ideal Temperature To Drink Water?
To get the maximum benefits of drinking hot water, consider the ideal temperature for drinking water around 120-140°F (49-60°C), which is warm but not scalding. It’s comfortable for most people.
It Is Good To Drink Hot Water During A Meal?
Drinking hot water during a meal can aid digestion for some individuals. However, excessive consumption of any liquid during meals may dilute digestive juices, so it’s advisable to drink in moderation to get the maximum benefits of drinking hot water.
Does Hot Water Burn Belly Fat?
Hot water alone is not a fat-burning remedy. Weight loss is primarily achieved through a combination of a balanced diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.
What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Hot Water At Night?
The benefits of drinking hot water at night can promote relaxation and help with better sleep. It may also aid digestion and relieve mild symptoms of cold or congestion.
Can Children Also Have Warm Water?
Yes, children can have warm water and harness the benefits of drinking hot water, but it should be at a safe temperature and appropriate for their age. Always supervise young children to prevent burns.
What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Hot Water For The Skin?
Drinking hot water can potentially improve skin health by promoting hydration and blood circulation. It may help maintain skin elasticity and a healthy complexion.
When Is The Best Time To Drink Hot Water?
The best time to drink hot water depends on your personal preferences and health goals. Some people prefer to get the benefits of drinking warm water in the morning for digestion, while others find it soothing before bedtime.
What Is The Best Way To Have Hot Water Daily?
The best way to have hot water daily is to ensure it’s at a safe and comfortable temperature. You can drink it plain or with added ingredients like lemon, honey, or herbs, depending on your preferences and health needs, to get the maximum benefits of drinking hot water.