The Negative Effects of Drinking Cold Water On The Body
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The Negative Effects of Drinking Cold Water
We all know that it is extremely important to drink sufficient water to stay hydrated and drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
However, are you aware of the fact that the temperature of water you drink can also affect your health?
Most of us drink a glass of chilled water right after returning from work, especially during summer to quench our thirst and remove exhaustion. However, many of us are not aware of the fact that drinking chilled water can do more harm than good.
Let's find out what are the harmful effects chilled can cause
Digestive problems
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One of the main reasons to avoid drinking chilled water is because it has a serious implication on your digestion. Chilled water as well as some cold beverages contract the blood vessels and also restrict digestion. The natural process of absorbing nutrients during digestion is hindered when you consume chilled water. The reason is your body’s focus is diverted from digestion to regulating the body temperature cause by the chilled water. Your body needs to spend extra energy to regulate the body temperature when you consume anything which has a very low temperature.
Sore throat
Another very obvious reason, for which even your elders have been preventing you from drinking cold water, is your increased chances of getting a sore throat and stuffy nose. Drinking chilled water, especially after a meal, results in the build up of excess mucus. However, when the tract gets congested, it becomes vulnerable to many inflammatory conditions and infections.
Decreases Heart Rate
Another reason to avoid drinking chilled water is because it decreases the heart rate. Studies have shown that drinking chilled water not only decreases the heart rate but also stimulates the vagus nerve. The nerve which controls the involuntary functions of the body. As the vagus nerve is directly affected by the low temperature of water, the heart rate eventually slows down.
Shocks your Body
It is also not advisable to have chilled water after a workout. Gym experts suggest taking a glass of warm water after a workout. When you workout, there’s a lot of heat generated, and if you drink ice-cold water immediately after, the mismatch of temperatures may take a toll on your digestive tract. In addition to that, your body cannot absorb the chilled water, therefore it's of no use. Some people also complain of a chronic pain in the stomach due to the intake of chilled water right after workout. This is because ice-cold water comes as a shock to your body.
Effects Fat Breakdown
Drinking chilled water immediately after a meal also interferes with your body’s ability to breakdown fats. The cold temperature of water solidifies fats from the foods and as a result it becomes difficult for your body to breakdown the unwanted fats . Even if you drink normal water, ensure that you wait for atleast 30 minutes after a meal before drinking water to get the maximum benefits.
Leads to Constipation
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Drinking room temperature water is necessary for the digestive process, however, drinking chilled water can lead to constipation. The reason is when you drink chilled water, the food solidifies and hardens when passing through the body. The intestines also contract which is one of the major causes of constipation.
Hot water breaks down the food easily and enhances your bowel movement. It leads to the better stimulation of natural digestive enzymes, and ensures smoother and better digestion. It also acts as a natural blood purifier, and increases your body’s natural detoxification processes. So load up on this wonder liquid, but make sure its not ice-cold.
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