The benefits and effects of drinking cold water
By Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen
Water is vital for our health, influencing everything from digestion to metabolism. While most people focus on how much water they drink, the temperature of that water can also have significant effects on our health. Water temperatureis measured using two primary scales: Celsius and Fahrenheit. Celsius is the most commonly used scale globally, while Fahrenheit is used primarily in the United States.
Cold water refers to water that is lower than room temperature. The average room temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit), so water below this range is considered cold. In Celsius, cold water is defined as 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, while Fahrenheit is between 32 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. This article explores the benefits and potential drawbacks of consuming cold water.
Benefits of Drinking Cold Water:
1. Enhances Metabolic Rate:
Drinking cold water can boost your metabolic rate, aiding in burning more calories. The human body burns calories when maintaining our core temperature; therefore, when we drink cold water, the body expends energy to warm the cold water to the core temperature, thereby burning calories.
2. Improves Digestion:
Cold water after a meal can aid digestion. It can contract stomach muscles, speeding digestion and facilitating nutrient absorption.
3. Reduces Inflammation:
Cold water can help reduce inflammation. Post-exercise, drinking cold water may soothe sore muscles and mitigate inflammation.
4. Aids Hydration:
Many people find cold water more satisfying, which may encourage higher water intake and better daily hydration.
Effects of Drinking Cold Water:
1. May Disrupt Digestion:
While cold water can be beneficial after a meal, consuming it during meals may interfere with digestion by solidifying fats, making them harder to digest.
2. Can Cause Headaches:
Drinking cold water rapidly can trigger headaches or migraines as the cold temperature may constrict blood vessels in the head.
3. May Lead to Colds:
Cold water does not cause colds, but it might weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
4. Can Aggravate Gallstones:
Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder.
For those with gallstones, cold water may cause gallbladder contractions, potentially intensifying symptoms.
In conclusion, while drinking cold water offers several benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of how and when you consume it. Opt for room temperature or warm water during meals to aid digestion, and enjoy cold water as a refreshing option throughout the day.
Amrah Musa Kamaruddeen wrote from the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano.