World Water Day 2025: Does Ingesting Ice-Chilly Water Assist Burn Energy? Or Is It A Well being Hazard

Many individuals imagine that ingesting ice-cold water can enhance metabolism and assist burn additional energy. The concept is predicated on the precept that the physique should work more durable to heat the water to physique temperature, utilizing power within the course of. However how a lot fact is there to this declare? And will ingesting ice-cold water have any damaging results in your well being?

Does Ingesting Ice-Chilly Water Burn Energy?

The speculation that chilly water burns energy is predicated on thermogenesis, the method by which the physique generates warmth. Whenever you devour one thing colder than your physique temperature (98.6 levels F or 37 levels C), your system should expend power to heat it up.

A research printed within the Journal of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism discovered that ingesting 500 mL (about 16.9 ounces) of water elevated metabolic charge by roughly 30 per cent for about an hour. Nevertheless, solely a small fraction of this power was used to warmth the water; the vast majority of the rise was because of different elements, such because the physique’s response to hydration.

How Many Energy Does Chilly Water Truly Burn?

A standard estimate means that ingesting 500 mL of ice-cold water burns round 17 energy. To place this into perspective:

Clearly, the calorie-burning impact of ice water is minimal and unlikely to contribute considerably to weight reduction.

Does Chilly Water Have Any Advantages?

Whereas ingesting ice-cold water won’t be a weight-loss hack, it does have some benefits:

Potential Well being Dangers of Ingesting Ice-Chilly Water

Whereas chilly water has some advantages, extreme consumption might have sure drawbacks.

1. Digestive Points

Ingesting very chilly water can sluggish digestion. Analysis means that chilly temperatures might constrict blood vessels within the abdomen, doubtlessly hindering digestion and nutrient absorption. In Conventional Chinese language Drugs (TCM) and Ayurveda, heat or room-temperature water is usually most popular as a result of it aids digestion.

2. Can Set off Migraines

For individuals vulnerable to migraines, consuming ice-cold drinks can act as a set off. A research in Cephalalgia, the journal of the Worldwide Headache Society, discovered that chilly water consumption elevated the probability of complications, significantly in ladies who have been already vulnerable to migraines.

3. Will increase Throat and Sinus Issues

Chilly drinks could cause mucus buildup within the respiratory tract, resulting in a stuffy nostril and sore throat. A research in Chest Journal discovered that individuals with widespread colds skilled worsened signs after ingesting chilly water in comparison with those that drank heat liquids.

4. Might Trigger “Mind Freeze”

Ever had a pointy headache after ingesting one thing very chilly? This is called sphenopalatine ganglion neuralgia, or “mind freeze.” It occurs when excessive chilly quickly cools the roof of the mouth, triggering nerve ache within the head.

Ought to You Drink Ice-Chilly Water?The choice to drink ice-cold water is dependent upon private choice and well being circumstances. Whereas it gives some advantages, it’s not a magic resolution for burning energy. In case you endure from migraines, sinus points, or digestive issues, it’s best to go for room temperature or heat water as an alternative.

So, whereas ingesting ice-cold water gained’t soften away fats, it may nonetheless be a refreshing and hydrating alternative—simply be aware of when and the way usually you drink it.