You might have experienced waking up early in the morning with a sore throat, thinking a glass of warm water would be soothing. Or on a hot summer day, nothing seems more refreshing than a glass of ice-cold water. But there’s a general question: should we drink warm water or cold water? Is cold water always the better choice, or only in certain situations? Does warm water really aid digestion, or is that just a traditional belief?
The truth is, the temperature of the water we drink can have different effects on our body. These effects depend on factors such as the season, environmental temperature, health conditions, time of consumption, and even the type of activities we’ve done throughout the day. On the other hand, many of the recommendations about drinking warm or cold water are rooted in traditional medicine or personal experiences and sometimes differ from scientific findings.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of each and look into when drinking warm water is better and when to go for cold water. Our goal is to help you make a more informed and healthier choice by the end of this piece.
Why Is Drinking Water Essential for the Body?
Before diving into the temperature debate, it’s important to remember that water is the foundation of life. Around 60% of the human body is made up of water, and it plays key roles such as regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients, eliminating toxins, aiding digestion, and supporting organ function.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue, reduced focus, constipation, headaches, and even kidney damage. So regardless of whether it’s warm or cold water, the main point is to drink enough water throughout the day.
When Is Drinking Cold Water Beneficial?
Drinking cold water, especially on hot summer days or after physical activity, can be incredibly refreshing. But does it just feel good, or does it offer actual benefits? Here are a few advantages of drinking cold water:
- Quick Body Cooling: On hot days or after exercise, cold water can help lower your body temperature faster.
- Boosted Metabolism: Some studies suggest cold water may slightly increase metabolism, as the body uses energy to bring it up to optimal temperature.
- Feeling Energized and Alert: For many people, cold water provides a refreshing jolt that enhances alertness.
However, some traditional medicine experts believe that cold water may slow down digestion, especially if consumed right after a meal. It’s also worth noting that drinking very cold water in cold weather or when your immune system is weak may irritate your throat.
Warm Water: A Friend to Digestion
Warm water, typically between 38°C to 45°C (100°F to 113°F), is recommended in many cultures, particularly in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine. But is it so beneficial that we should always choose warm water over cold? Let’s look at some of its advantages:
- Helps Digestion: Warm water may assist in breaking down fats and supporting smoother digestion.
- Relieves Cramps and Muscle Pain: The heat can relax muscles and ease pain.
- Natural Detoxification: Drinking warm water, especially first thing in the morning, may aid the body in flushing out toxins through urine and sweat.
- Improves Blood Circulation: The warmth helps expand blood vessels and promotes better circulation.
However, in some cases, very hot water can reduce appetite, which isn’t ideal for those needing more calories. Also, during summer, warm water may not be suitable for people with heart conditions.
So, Should You Drink Warm or Cold Water?
The answer depends on individual conditions, the season, your health status, and even the time of consumption. The following table summarizes different situations and the more suitable choice:
| Recommended Water Temperature | Situation |
| First thing in the morning | First thing in the morning |
| After exercise | After exercise |
| In winter | In winter |
| During heat exhaustion | During heat exhaustion |
| For digestive issues | For digestive issues |
| After meals | After meals |
Mind the Water Temperature
Drinking water that’s too hot or too cold can be harmful. Boiling water can damage mouth and throat tissues, while icy water may disrupt digestion or cause muscle cramps. The best choice is moderate-temperature water, such as lukewarm or slightly cool. Lukewarm water is more pleasant and helps the body absorb minerals better. So pay attention to the temperature of your drinking water—this small detail can make a big difference to your health.
If you’re still unsure whether to choose warm or cold water, we recommend observing your body’s needs and the timing of water consumption.
Choosing Safe Water Is More Important Than Its Temperature!
Beyond the question of warm vs. cold, the most crucial factor is choosing clean, safe drinking water. Even if you pick the perfect temperature, if the water quality is poor, your body won’t benefit.
Damavand drinking water, sourced from natural springs and processed through controlled procedures, is one of the most trusted mineral water brands in Iran, offering you both health and freshness. Drinking clean water is a big step toward a healthier life.
Why Choose Damavand Drinking Water?
Damavand is one of the oldest and most reputable mineral water brands in Iran, trusted by families for years. Sourced from pristine underground springs and bottled using state-of-the-art technology while adhering to international standards, Damavand preserves all the natural minerals and beneficial properties of the water throughout the purification and packaging process.
