Is cold water really the best choice for summers? The expert evaluates

“Drink enough water” is something we’ve all heard since childhood, and there’s a reason. It keeps you hydrated and healthy, removing toxins from the body and benefiting your overall health. In fact, experts often claim that drinking enough water is one of the most sustainable ways to alleviate various health problems. But did you know that even hydration has its own set of rules? You read that right! It is equally important to know what kind of water you are drinking, when and at what time of day. Hydration mistakes often lead to serious problems, such as kidney problems and constipation. In this article, we will talk about a common mistake that people make during the summer season: “drinking cold water straight from the fridge”.

Read also: Can water help satisfy premature hunger pangs? The expert reveals the truth

Why do we drink cold water during the summer season?

Come summer, the outside temperature rises to an all-time high. This eventually raises the body temperature, increasing the need for instant cooling. And this is where most of us go wrong. While we agree that a glass of cold water feels like a lifesaver in the moment, studies have found that it can have a serious impact on long-term health. Does this mean you should avoid cold water entirely? The answer is NO! According to the website www.precisionhydration.com, cold water can also have a good effect on your health, but only when you drink it at the right time of day. Let’s elucidate further.

Read also: Hydration made simple: how much water to drink and when for a healthier you

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Is cold water good or bad for you during the summer?

According to the Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies, it is always best to avoid drinking cold water during a meal or at any time of the day. I wonder why? It is because the temperature of the water can disturb the normal functioning of the gastric juices and also disturb the balance of the doshas.

Yoga and lifestyle expert Kamya, who goes by the name ‘yogawithkamya_’ on Instagram, feels that cold water should be avoided as it can have a serious impact on your digestion. The severities increase during the summer as our digestion is already slowed due to the extreme heat during this time of the year. He also mentions that chilled water, as well as some cold drinks, constrict blood vessels and hinder the natural process of absorbing nutrients during digestion.

In addition, cold water during the summer can also increase the risks of sore throats, nasal congestion and other such problems, states a study published in the National Library of Medicine.

When is the right time to drink cold water?

According to health experts, drinking cold water during any type of physical exercise has proven to be efficient in the process. A 2012 study, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, finds that drinking cold water during exercise can help prevent the body from overheating and make training sessions more successful.

What’s the best way to stay hydrated during the summer season?

By now, you must have heard of the “eight glass water rule,” a popular guideline in the health and fitness world. This means that you need to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to maintain your body’s fluid balance. But according to a report from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the amount always varies depending on the outside temperature and your physical needs. How much water you should drink also depends on your age, gender, daily calorie count, energy burn, and other factors.

To make it easier for everyone, the UNL report recommends, “If you’ve been in the heat for less than two hours and engaged in moderate work activities, drink a cup of water every 15-20 minutes.”

So from now on, think twice before reaching for that bottle of cold water kept in the fridge. Drink water carefully and have a healthy and happy summer!