It depends on your goal: warm water may quench thirst better if you're not sweating excessively, while both hot and cold water can potentially boost metabolism.
Drinking water, whether hot or cold, offers various benefits. However, the "better" choice is situational and depends on individual preferences and specific needs.
Effects of Water Temperature
Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
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Thirst Quenching: Room-temperature or slightly warm water is often more effective at quenching thirst than cold water, according to some sources. This is especially true if you're not actively losing fluids through heavy sweating. The referenced text suggests this.
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Metabolism: Both hot and cold water can slightly boost metabolism. Your body expends energy to warm up cold water or cool down hot water to reach your core temperature.
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Digestion: Some people find that warm water aids digestion, especially after meals. Cold water might constrict blood vessels in the stomach, potentially hindering digestion.
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Hydration: Ultimately, any water is good for hydration. The most important thing is to drink enough water throughout the day, regardless of the temperature.
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Personal Preference: Some people simply prefer the taste and feel of cold water, while others prefer warm water.
Considerations
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Exercise/Sweating: When exercising or in hot weather, cold water might be more appealing and help cool you down faster.
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Medical Conditions: If you have specific medical conditions, such as achalasia, discuss optimal water temperature with your doctor. Some conditions may be exacerbated by very hot or very cold liquids.
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Timing: Consider the time of day. Warm water might be soothing before bed, while cold water might be more refreshing in the morning.
In summary, there isn't a universally "better" temperature for drinking water. The optimal choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Focus on staying adequately hydrated with water at a temperature you find palatable and beneficial.
