Water is essential for all life on Earth and is a critical component of healthy living. However, according to a Harvard study, many Americans don’t drink enough water, Mercola reports, which can lead to a host of problems including poor concentration, muscle aches, and bad breath.
The recommended amount may seem surprising to most people. WebMD recommends between 1/2 ounce and 1 ounce per pound weighed. For a 150-pound person, that would equate to about a gallon of water per day. Those who are more physically active, drink dehydrating beverages (like coffee), or eat a lot of salty foods should drink more to compensate. In fact, Sheila Tucker, a nutritionist at Boston College, recommends not waiting until you’re thirsty before going to class.
While water is better than nothing, hot water, especially on an empty stomach, will do more than quench your thirst. Here are five benefits of drinking a cup of hot water instead of a cup of ice water.
1. Relieves nasal congestion
Because hot water releases steam, the vapors created by the heat can help relieve clogged or irritated sinuses.
2. Increases metabolism
Warm water in the morning will “boost your metabolism” and help burn fat tissue, says Lifehack. If a regular cup of hot water doesn’t sound appealing to you, you can also add lemon for an extra kick.
3. Relieves menstrual pain
The heat of the water increases blood flow and helps relax muscles for an overall calming effect. Medical Daily also recommends drinking warm water to help treat muscle spasms.
4. Wellbeing
Not only does boiled water contain fewer opportunistic bacterial organisms than cold water, but drinking hot water can help your natural defenses fight infections. Warm water increases circulation and reduces mucus in the sinuses and throat, making it difficult for opportunistic infections to grow, Dr. Michael Wald, director of nutritional services at Integrative Medicine and Nutrition, told Live Strong.
5. Help for the digestive system
According to Medical Daily, hot water helps break down and remove oils from food. The site adds that drinking warm water in the morning on an empty stomach also helps maintain regularity. Also try adding lemon as the acidity of lemon also helps with digestion.
6. Natural detox
Hot water is a natural detoxifier. It increases body temperature and promotes blood circulation, helping the body to naturally eliminate impurities and waste through sweat and secretions.
7. Soothe your throat
Warm water is especially helpful if you have a cough or sore throat. The high temperature helps warm the vocal cords.
8. Relieves constipation
Drinking warm water also helps relieve constipation. Warm water helps the intestines contract, making it easier for the body to get rid of old waste.
9. Improves central nervous system function
Water is essential for survival and when we don’t drink enough or become dehydrated, our bodies and minds suffer. Drinking water, hot or cold, can help improve brain function and mood.
