Here's what drinking hot water throughout the day can do to you

Starting your day with a hot cup of water may be one of the first things you do in the morning if you’re a fitness enthusiast, or especially if you’re trying to lose weight. This is because hot water has long been touted as having an unparalleled ability to cleanse the body. Some people also drink hot water all day long. However, overdoing it jeopardize your health. No, we’re not kidding!

There is a lot of buzz around drinking hot water, taking steam, and even taking hot showers. But in reality, going overboard in any situation is bad. You must also be wary about consuming very hot water.

Health Shots spoke to Hari Lakshmi, Consultant – Dietitian/Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Chennai, to find out the benefits of drinking hot water and how doing so throughout the day can be harmful.

drinking hot water
Hot water can be really helpful. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Lakshmi says, “Drinking water and staying hydrated undoubtedly helps us stay healthy. It results in good skin, proper digestive health, and helps in fighting infections. While water of any temperature supports overall well-being, drinking hot water can be especially beneficial as it acts as a fluid that cleanses your body of toxins.”

Here are some of the benefits of drinking hot water:

1. Helps in digestion

Hot water smoothens the digestive tract and activates it. It helps in breaking down the food faster than cold water. Hot water also aids in regularizing bowel movements and reduces the risk of constipation.

2. Gets rid of the toxins

Drinking hot water increases the body’s temperature and causes sweating. This helps in the release of toxins present in the body. In fact, if you are suffering from a cold and cough, sipping on warm water can provide major relief.

3. Prevent premature ageing

It might surprise you to learn that this is another well-known advantage of drinking hot water. Hot water helps to repair the skin cells, so your skin is more elastic and less likely to develop dangerous free radicals. In fact, your skin will get smoother and continue to look young and radiant as a result.

4. Weight loss

Drinking hot water first thing in the morning can help a person lose weight. It improves the metabolism of the body and can help you shed those extra kilos.

drinking hot water
Enjoy weight loss. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Fights allergies/improves sinus health

Hot water can relieve the pressure on the sinuses caused by colds and nasal allergies. It unclogs the sinuses and helps in moving the mucus quickly.

6. Improve blood circulation

Warm water is also known for healthy blood circulation. Healthy blood flow can help muscles relax and reduce pain.

Also, read: Can drinking water that has been sitting overnight make you sick? An expert answers

7. Helpful in reducing menstrual cramps

Yes, that’s true. During a menstrual cycle, drinking warm water helps to overcome the stomach pain and cramps.

drinking hot water
If your period cramps are getting out of control, try this sure shot remedy for period pain. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Here are a few disadvantages of drinking hot water

Anything that is done in excess can be harmful. The same is the case with drinking a lot of hot water. Here are the side effects you need to be careful about:

  1. If the water is too hot, it can scald and damage your tongue and taste buds.
  2. It can also be harmful to internal organs like the esophagus and stomach.
  3. Drinking hot water right before you go to bed can mess up your sleep cycle.