As the summer heat beats down, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a tall glass of ice-cold water. But could this seemingly innocent habit be more than just a thirst quencher? With rising concerns about health and hydration, the debate over whether drinking cold water in summer is beneficial or harmful has gained traction. Let’s dive into the depths of this chilling topic with expert insights.

Dr. Narendra Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer, Kshemavana Wellness Centre: 

“Ah, summer. The sun is shining and all you want is an ice-cold drink. But is this super cold water the best thirst quencher? Let’s explore the science behind this refreshing drink. Sure, cold water works great on a hot day. But your body actually works harder to bring it up to core temperature, which can delay hydration. It is also possible that it can temporarily slow down digestion.

Don’t give up on coolness completely though! Research shows that cold water can be beneficial during exercise as it helps lower body temperature. The key is moderation. Choose cold water instead of freezing and drink throughout the day.

Here’s a hydration hack: Add fruits or vegetables to your water to make it taste better! Watermelon, cucumber or even berries add a delightful twist and encourage you to drink more. So avoid the sugary drinks and let the cold water flow – just chill with the cold and

your body will thank you!”

Our bodies are remarkably adaptable, but how do they react to cold water consumption in summer?

Dr Karthiyayini Mahadevan, Head, Wellness and Wellbeing at Columbia Pacific Communities: 

“During summer, when the body heats up from the environment, it sends signals to the brain to protect the internal balance from the effects of excess heat. However, the intake of cold water disrupts these signals, as the receptors in the oral mucosa sense the cold water. This conflicting signal confuses the brain responsible for appropriate action.

Drinking cold water constricts blood vessels in the oropharyngeal cavity, leading to compensatory increased mucus secretion as a defence mechanism in the oro and nasopharynx. This creates an ideal breeding ground for viruses and bacteria, potentially causing respiratory tract infections. Additionally, drinking cold water constricts blood vessels in the stomach and reduces the muscle Layer’s size, impairing digestive juice secretion and leading to digestive difficulties. Bowel movement slows down, resulting in constipation. Although there may be an urge to drink ice-cold water, consuming it may quench thirst with very little water, posing a greater challenge to the body & thermo regulation.

It is advisable to drink water at room temperature. Increasing fluid intake through tender coconut, buttermilk, juices from seasonal fruits like raw mango, and beverages made from Nannari (herb) roots and Kokum will help cool the body and aid in effective regulation of body temperature.”

Keeping your body hydrated is essential, especially under the scorching sun. But does the temperature of the water we drink really matter? Let’s find out.

Dr. Surendra Sharma, Expert at Alyve Health:

 

“Water – the most under-rated and ignored natural drink. Drinking plain water, no matter the temperature, has been associated with many benefits as described below.

• Regulates internal body temperature
• Regulates metabolism
• Helps in digestion
• Improves circulation in the body
• Helps in eliminating wastes/detoxification
• Improves brain function/activity
• Keeps your skin healthy and hydrated
• Prevents constipation

One should understand that, drinking ice-cold (chilled) water at any season is not advisable. Drinking cold water while you have a cold or flu, or if you have any chronic condition that results in slower digestion, is probably not a great idea. Some believe that drinking hot water is especially effective for activating the digestive system. The theory is that hot water can also dissolve and dissipate the food you’ve eaten that your body might have had trouble digesting. While drinking water that’s cold may help you burn a few extra calories as you digest it, because your body has to work harder to maintain its core temperature.

The bottom line is – water, irrespective of its temperature serves the same benefits.

Bonus points:

1. Please ensure to have a minimum 3 litres of water/fluids every day. Yes, this may vary depending on the age, gender, and climatic conditions where people live.
2. These 3 litres do not necessarily be water, it can include other fluids like natural fruit juices, soups, decoction.
3. Try to avoid drinking water while having food. A small quantity can be consumed, as needed.
4. The optimum time to drink water after having meals is approximately 30 minutes after the food consumption. Drinking water goes beyond just keeping you hydrated.”