Anything that promises to ease digestive issues quickly goes viral on the internet. But like many TikTok trends, what some consider a new discovery is actually a practice that many cultures have been using for centuries. Take Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is currently at its peak of popularity, and one of its tenets is going viral on the internet. It involves sipping hot water in small sips. Experts explain why you should ditch the ice and opt for warm water.
Benefits of drinking hot water
Pasu Harisadi, CMD, a Traditional Chinese Medicine instructor at RAKxa Integrative Wellness, explains that in TCM, drinking warm water is considered a longevity habit that supports the digestive system and balances the flow of energy in the body. Warm water, she says, is “fuel” for the digestive fire, which helps the body break down nutrients. “Drinking warm water relaxes the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and stimulates the movement of qi (life energy) and blood,” says Harisadi.
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“This digestive fire can be thought of as a metaphor for the stomach and spleen, the organs responsible for digestion in TCM,” adds Sager Husseini, a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and founder of Set Your Intention Acupuncture. “They love warmth because it allows food to be properly digested, nutrients to be absorbed, and healthy, strong chi to circulate through the body. On the other hand, ice water weakens digestion, forcing the body to expend extra energy warming the contents of the stomach before the digestion process even begins. Over time, this can lead to bloating, sluggish digestion, and an unpleasant feeling of fatigue after eating.”
From a Western medical perspective, Zulia Frost, MD, co-founder and clinical director of Recharge Health, says that warm water sends a “rest and digest” signal to the nervous system. It can support digestion, reduce bloating, and stimulate the bowels. While research on the effects of warm water on metabolism is limited and the benefits are mostly indirect, it does have a number of benefits.
5 reasons why we should all drink hot water
Improves gut health
“Warmth helps the body metabolize fluids more efficiently,” says Harisady. “It helps draw out excess moisture and cold, which slow down digestion, and helps keep the internal flow light and free.” Dr. Frost adds that warm drinks relax the gastrointestinal tract, making it easier for food to pass through and encouraging slower, more mindful eating.
Promotes detoxification
According to Harisady, the stomach's energy needs to move downward to remove waste products from the body, and warm water helps this process.
Relieves stomach pain
Because warm water helps to pass waste more easily, it can reduce abdominal pain, including menstrual cramps, bloating, and other discomforts.
Helps maintain hydration
If you have a hard time drinking enough water throughout the day, warm water may be the answer. Dr. Frost notes that many people hydrate better with warm drinks.
Reduces digestive and mental stress
Because warm water activates the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”), it can help you relax and reduce stress-related digestive issues. It can also help ease breathing when you're feeling congested and act as a calming ritual.
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Possible disadvantages
There are few downsides, but there are some things to consider. Dr. Frost notes that drinking very hot water outside of meals can prematurely stimulate gastric secretions, which can sometimes cause discomfort in people with sensitive digestion.
In TCM, Harisadi says, it's important to consider your individual energy balance. If your body is already “overheated” (due to an elevated temperature or a natural tendency to heat), adding hot liquids is like adding fuel to the fire. In cases of yin deficiency (when the body lacks moisture and cooling properties), warm water can exacerbate dehydration. In cases of inflammation or so-called “damp heat,” hot water can also worsen the condition.
How to drink hot water for the best effect
Harisady says there’s no universal “perfect” time, and it’s best to go with what feels right for your body. But if you need structure, Husseini usually recommends drinking warm water before and after meals to help stimulate and support digestion. In TCM, stomach energy is believed to be most active in the morning between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., so supporting it during this time is especially beneficial. “I’ve also found that the morning is the perfect time to hydrate, as it can be much harder to drink enough water during the workday,” she says. “It sounds simple, but for many of my patients, it’s the one thing that has had the biggest positive impact.”
Adding herbs or other ingredients can enhance the benefits. In TCM:
- lemon or citrus fruits support the liver;
- fresh ginger stimulates immunity;
- goji berries or Chinese jujube give you energy;
- Chamomile or chrysanthemum with licorice root help reduce internal heat and balance energy.
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However, if all of that is not to your liking, you can simply drink plain warm water. “Plain water is the most neutral and universally recommended base,” says Harisady. Dr. Frost agrees: the simplest approach is the best. Sip warm water slowly, preferably in the morning or between meals. You can add lemon or ginger if you want. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is better to limit yourself to plain warm water. “The key is regularity, moderation and the ability to listen to your body, rather than blindly following trends,” she concludes.
Based on material from: Vogue.com