20 Health Benefits of Drinking Hot water

Overview

Water is life, but the temperature at which you consume it is a world of difference. Though cold water can be cooling, warm water can be pure magic in your body. It aids metabolism, detoxification, and even mental alertness. Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine have been espousing warm water benefits for ages, and now science has begun catching up with them on the same bandwagon.

So, what happens when you incorporate drinking warm water as part of your daily routine? Let's find out.

20 Health Benefits of Hot Water

Here are 20 amazing health benefits of warm water and why you should drink it every morning for your health:

1. Improves Digestion

One of the most significant warm water benefits is its effect on digestion. Warm water digests food more quickly than cold water because it is easier for the stomach to digest food.  Warm water also stimulates digestive enzymes so that it becomes simple for the nutrients to absorb. Drinking warm water before or after meals can improve digestion and avoid bloating.

2. Prevents Constipation

If you commonly have constipation, warm water could be an easy and effective solution. Warm water accelerates intestinal muscles, which move food easily throughout the digestive system. It also softens faeces, leading to healthier, more pleasant bowel movements.  Begin every morning by drinking warm water to prepare your digestion and cleanse your system.

3. Detoxifies Your Body

Among the top health benefits of warm water is that it helps in detoxification. Warm water raises the body temperature, and because of this, sweating takes place, which detoxifies the skin naturally. It also helps in maintaining kidney function by enhancing urine flow, which again removes waste products from the body. Lemon juice added to warm water can further enhance its detox effect.

4. Enhances Blood Circulation

Warm water expands blood vessels, resulting in improved circulation within the body. This translates to improved oxygen and nutrient circulation to organs and tissues. Improved circulation also relaxes muscle tension and pain, making warm water a great post-exercise beverage.

5. Provides Relief from Nasal Congestion

If you have hay fever or sinus congestion, a glass of warm water will decongest. Warm water loosens mucus and dilates nasal passages to facilitate easier breathing. It will calm sore throats, minimising the coughing and discomfort that come with the flu and colds.

6. Assists in Weight Loss

Most individuals do not realise that drinking warm water helps in weight loss. Warm water increases the metabolic process, thus aiding the body in burning calories efficiently. Warm water dissolves fat cells within the body, and because of this, losing weight becomes simple. Drinking lemon water in the morning is one of the best weight-reduction tips.

7. Relieves Menstrual Cramps

Warm water is a natural painkiller for menstrual cramps. It relaxes the uterine muscles so that it hurts and feels unpleasant. Drinking warm water during menstruation can also help in blood circulation and ease bloating. Honey can be added to it to make it more soothing.

8. Eases Sore Throat

A scratchy, sore throat is so irritating, but drinking warm water will do wonders. Warm water soothes an irritated throat and helps in expelling mucus buildup. While having a minor throat infection, drinking a glass of warm water with honey and lemon speeds up the healing process.

9. Assists in Reducing Stress and Anxiety

One of the lesser-documented health benefits of warm water is the impact it has on stress levels. Warm water calms the nervous system, reducing stress, anxiety, and even minor depression. It relaxes and calms tension within the body, making it an excellent drink to consume before sleep.

10. Improves Skin Health

Glowing, clear skin begins from the inside out, and drinking warm water is a big part of it. Warm water flushes out toxins, moisturises the skin, and gets the blood flowing. It can even prevent breakouts and acne by regulating the body's oil production.

11. Helps You Sleep Better

If it is difficult to sleep, a warm glass of water at night will be effective. Warm water calms the nervous system and relieves tension in the body, making it easy to sleep. It also avoids night dehydration, which interferes with sleep quality.

12. Prevents Premature Aging

Premature ageing has been frequently associated with toxin accumulation in the body. Drinking warm water induces detoxification and prevents your skin from looking old and loose. It also renders your skin elastic and softens wrinkles and fine lines.

13. Reduces Joint Pain

For individuals suffering from arthritis or joint pains, warm water benefits extend to relieving pain. Warm water is a natural lubricant for joints, which dissolves stiffness and pain. Warm water also improves circulation in the target area, hastening recovery.

14. Balances pH Levels in the Body

Body acidity causes indigestion and inflammation. Warm water balances the body's pH level, stopping heartburn and acid reflux. A glass of warm water with a pinch of baking soda will also cure acidity.

15. Strengthens Immunity

A healthy immune system is vital to a person's well-being, and drinking warm water provides a way to keep it that way. Warm water supports effective digestion, cleanses the body, and rehydrates cells—all of which are needed to keep the immune system strong.

16. Stimulates Hair Growth

Warm water enhances blood flow to the scalp to nourish hair follicles with what they require to grow. Warm water also keeps the scalp moist to avoid dryness and dandruff. The inclusion of warm water in your daily routine can make your hair stronger and healthier if you have one.

17. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

One of the least known health benefits of warm water is that it can also prevent UTIs. Consuming a lot of warm water can flush bacteria from the urinary tract and, therefore decrease the risk of infection. It also prevents kidney infection by keeping the urinary system germ-free.

18. Prevents Bad Breath

Bad breath is generally due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth. Gargling with warm water flushes out bacteria and food particles and makes your mouth fresh. Salt gargling with warm water further maintains oral hygiene.

19. Prevents Kidney Stones

Kidney stones occur when minerals precipitate out in the kidneys. Drinking warm water keeps the kidneys moistened and eliminates excess minerals to prevent stone formation. One of the easiest ways of ensuring healthy kidneys is to drink plenty of water.

20. Facilitates Nutrient Absorption

Good digestion is essential for nutrient intake, and warm water for digestion makes it faster. It digests food faster and makes minerals and vitamins more easily absorbed in the body. It results in overall improved wellness and energy.

Side Effects of Drinking Warm Water

Although drinking warm water has its advantages, excessive intake might cause problems such as:

• Mouth or throat burns: Refrain from consuming very hot water to avoid scalding.

• Overhydration: Excess water will dilute the electrolytes and lead to an imbalance.

• Discomfort in summer: Warm water will increase body temperature and keep you uncomfortable during the summer.

• Frequent urination: Excess water intake will make you urinate frequently.

Adhere to a reasonable amount—1-2 cups in the morning and afternoon is perfect.

Final Thoughts

The health benefits of warm water are much more than just keeping you hydrated. It can lead to better digestion and radiating skin and can work wonders for your body. If you want to accelerate your metabolism, cleanse yourself naturally, or simply want to feel refreshed, make a habit of drinking warm water daily. However, if you notice any problems due to overhydration or dehydration, consult a doctor at your nearest super-specialty hospital as soon as possible!

FAQs

1. How much warm water do I need to consume daily?

Aim for 1-2 glasses in the morning and have it throughout the day as needed. Just ensure it's warm, not boiling.

2. Can warm water really help digestion?

Yes! Drinking warm water for digestion is great as it stimulates the digestive system, enabling food to move smoothly and avoiding bloating.

3. Should warm water be taken in the morning or evening?

Both! Morning consumption boosts metabolism and detoxification, while evening use results in relaxation and better sleep.

4. Is warm water the same as tea or coffee?

Yes, definitely! If you prefer a caffeine-free alternative with the same warming properties, warm water is an ideal substitute.

5. Does warm water aid in weight loss?

Yes, one of the least known warm water benefits is that it also aids in increasing metabolism and burning fat more efficiently.

Citations

Aging, N. R. C. (US) C. on C. T. and. (1987). Principles of Toxicology in the Context of Aging. In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK218724/

Booth, J., & Agnew, R. (2019). Evaluating a hydration intervention (DRInK Up) to prevent urinary tract infection in care home residents: A mixed methods exploratory study. Journal of Frailty, Sarcopenia and Falls, 04(02), 36–44. https://doi.org/10.22540/jfsf-04-036

Fujihira, K., Hamada, Y., Yanaoka, T., Yamamoto, R., Suzuki, K., & Miyashita, M. (2019). The effects of water temperature on gastric motility and energy intake in healthy young men. European Journal of Nutrition, 59(1), 103–109. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-018-1888-6

Fulghum, D. (2024, March 17). How Drinking Fluids Can Help You Manage Constipation. WebMD; WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/water-a-fluid-way-to-manage-constipation

Mooventhan, A., & Nivethitha, L. (2014). Scientific evidence-based Effects of Hydrotherapy on Various Systems of the Body. North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 6(5), 199. https://doi.org/10.4103/1947-2714.132935

Vij, V. A. (2013). Effect of “Water Induced Thermogenesis” on Body Weight, Body Mass Index and Body Composition of Overweight Subjects. JOURNAL of CLINICAL and DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH, 7(9). https://doi.org/10.7860/jcdr/2013/5862.3344