As the cold season approaches, people start adjusting their daily routines to stay healthy in chilly weather. One common practice is drinking warm water during winter. The cold can be harsh, making even touching cold water uncomfortable. So, many people switch to warm water for drinking. Warm water is often recommended for various health concerns, like sore throats and indigestion. However, drinking warm water frequently, excessively, or in large amounts during winter may actually have adverse effects rather than benefits. Let’s explore some potential side effects of drinking warm water in winter.
Adverse Effects on the Kidneys
Drinking excessive amounts of warm water can be harmful to the kidneys. Normally, kidneys are accustomed to filtering cooler water, so suddenly switching to large quantities of warm water can strain them. This can impair their function, as filtering warmer water is more challenging. Therefore, it’s best to limit the intake of hot water. If you can’t drink cold water in winter, try drinking lukewarm water instead.
Risk of Irritation
Drinking too much warm water may lead to irritation in the throat and stomach. It can also cause sores in the mouth and throat. To avoid these issues, it’s advisable to stick to lukewarm water and limit the intake of very hot water as much as possible.
Dehydration Risks
Repeatedly drinking warm water in winter may also lead to dehydration. This can happen for two reasons: firstly, with cold water, we can usually drink more at once, but warm water is harder to consume in large quantities. Secondly, drinking warm water can lead to sweating, which reduces the body’s fluid levels and may cause dehydration.
Digestive Issues
While drinking lukewarm water on an empty stomach can aid digestion, consuming excessive warm water throughout the day in winter can harm the digestive system. The internal tissues may become irritated, leading to issues like acidity, and in the long term, ulcers could develop.
Loss of Essential Minerals
Excessive intake of warm water can cause mineral imbalances in the body. Sweating due to warm water not only leads to fluid loss but also the loss of essential minerals. Therefore, it’s best to drink lukewarm water in winter to avoid excessive sweating and maintain a proper mineral balance.
In short, while warm water has health benefits, it’s crucial to consume it mindfully, especially during the colder months. Sticking to lukewarm water is a safer choice to stay hydrated and avoid the side effects of overly hot water.