As temperatures soar, many of us turn to ice-cold water for relief from the scorching heat. While it might seem like the perfect way to cool down, drinking chilled water—especially in large quantities—can have unexpected effects on digestion and overall health. Experts warn that consuming ice-cold water too quickly can cause stomach discomfort, slow down digestion, and even lead to other health issues.

Why Ice-Cold Water Might Be Harmful During Hot Weather

1. It Can Shock Your Digestive System

When you drink very cold water, it can cause a sudden temperature change in your stomach. The digestive system works best at an optimal temperature, and a sudden drop can disrupt its function. Cold water can cause the blood vessels in the stomach to constrict, slowing digestion and leading to bloating, cramps, or discomfort.

Dr William Chey, a gastroenterologist at the University of Michigan, explains, "Drinking ice-cold water when your body is overheated can create a temporary shock to your system, affecting digestion and potentially leading to nausea or stomach cramps."

2. It May Trigger Stomach Pain and Bloating

Cold water can cause the muscles in the stomach to contract, which may lead to stomach pain, bloating, and discomfort. This is especially true for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, consuming ice-cold beverages can aggravate symptoms in people with sensitive stomachs. The rapid cooling effect can slow down the process of breaking down food, leading to sluggish digestion and gas formation.

3. It Can Disrupt the Body’s Natural Cooling Mechanism

Drinking cold water might make you feel cool temporarily, but it can interfere with your body's natural ability to regulate temperature. When you consume ice-cold water, your body works harder to warm it up to match your internal temperature, using up extra energy in the process.

Dr Dana Hunnes, a senior dietitian at UCLA Medical Center, says, "Your body cools down naturally through sweating. Drinking very cold water can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing sweat production and making it harder for your body to release excess heat."

What Happens When You Drink Chilled Water After Being in the Heat?

When your body is overheated, such as after exercise or prolonged exposure to the sun, consuming very cold water can lead to a phenomenon called "temperature shock." This can cause dizziness, muscle spasms, or even a mild headache.

A study in the Journal of Athletic Training found that athletes who consumed ice-cold water immediately after intense physical activity were more prone to experiencing cramps and digestion-related discomfort than those who drank water at a moderate temperature.

How to Stay Hydrated the Right Way

Instead of reaching for an ice-cold drink, opt for room temperature or slightly cool water. Here are some hydration tips to follow during extreme heat:

While drinking cold water may seem refreshing on a hot day, it can have unintended side effects on digestion and overall health. Opting for room temperature or slightly cool water is a safer way to stay hydrated without shocking your body. If you frequently experience stomach discomfort after drinking cold beverages, consider adjusting your water temperature for better digestive health.

Dr Michael F. Picco, a gastroenterologist, advises, "Listening to your body and choosing hydration methods that support digestion and temperature regulation is key to staying healthy during extreme heat."

Staying hydrated is crucial during extreme heat, but how you drink water matters just as much as how much you drink.

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