Hot water is gaining increasing popularity as the go-to drink for wellness. That trend is just an example of people adopting Eastern medicine and embracing Chinese wellness trends on social media.

But, what’s the take on hot water? Some claim it can improve skin texture, promote weight loss, and even detoxify the body.  If you would like to learn more about the benefits of hot water, we boil down a few other benefits.

Kick Starts the Gut
Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, a holistic medical system from India, have encouraged drinking hot water first thing in the morning to get your bowels moving and keep the digestive system operating at its best. Although there is little scientific evidence to support this, a 2016 study examined the digestive benefits of drinking hot water in 60 patients who had just undergone gallbladder surgery. Those who drank warm water a few hours after the procedure passed gas sooner than those who didn’t. Small studies suggest that cold drinks or meals might cause the stomach to empty its contents more slowly than warm or hot ones.

Improves Central Nervous System Function

Drinking hot water, regardless of its temperature, can have a profound effect on the central nervous system. A 2019 study revealed that drinking hot water improved central nervous system activity and boosted participants’ mood. It also boosted brain activity; after all, proper hydration plays a pivotal role in improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, reducing fatigue and enhancing focus. It also protects against cognitive decline.

Helps the Body with Detoxification
There is little scientific evidence to prove that hot water can help with detoxification. Nevertheless, a 2020 study found that drinking more water can help the kidneys dilute waste material more effectively. Research by the Arthritis Foundation found several benefits of drinking water for the body: not only does it flush out toxins, but it also helps the body fight inflammation and keeps the joints well-lubricated, thus preventing other ailments like gout.

Relieves Constipation
Regardless of the temperature, water is a great way to relieve constipation naturally. Although few studies support this, many claim that hot water is a great tool for stimulating intestinal contractions, relaxing the gut muscles, and hydrating the body to soften stool. When the intestinal muscles relax, this allows for easier, less painful elimination. A few studies suggest that hot water helps expand the blood vessels, which can improve the blood flow to the digestive system and boost its function as well. 

Decreases Stress Levels
Drinking hot water plays an important role in improving the function of the central nervous system, and that in turn might also make you feel less anxious. According to a 2014 study, drinking less water was associated with reduced feelings of calmness, satisfaction, and positive emotions. According to scientific studies, warm water can stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting rest and relaxing muscle tension by directly lowering stress levels. Moreover, hot water widens the blood vessels and improves the blood flow, which in turn helps the body relax and eases tension.

Reduces Symptoms of Achalasia
Achalasia is a condition in which your esophagus has trouble moving food down into your stomach. Hot water helps relax the muscles in your esophagus and facilitates the passage of food. Although researchers are still puzzled by the effect of drinking hot water on esophageal movement, a 2012 study revealed that drinking hot water helps people with achalasia digest food more comfortably. On the other hand, cold water exacerbated the symptoms of achalasia in many patients by increasing the resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter and prolonging esophageal contractions.

While there is little scientific research on the benefits of hot water, staying hydrated throughout the day is a great way for the body to maintain its optimal function. After all, proper hydration boosts your energy, supports cognitive function, and aids in digestion.

David Messiha | Staff Writer