As temperatures continue to soar, many people will be relying on iced beverages to help keep temperatures down over the next few days.
While iced water and drinks may be a quick and efficient way to provide some relief during summer, experts have issued a warning on why people may want to steer clear of the beverage during high temperatures.
What are the dangers of drinking excessively cold water during warm weather?
Scott Carswell, the founder of The Ice Maker Hub, has commented on the potential dangers of drinking large quantities of excessively cold water during hot weather:
“While many people will regard iced water as an effective way to keep cool during the summer, it’s important to flag some of the hidden drawbacks associated with drinking excessively cold water during a heatwave.
“Drinking large quantities of extremely cold water may cause harm to your digestive system, particularly if consumed over a short timeframe. The blood vessels and muscles in your stomach are highly responsive to temperature changes, which is why drinking overly cold water can result in physical side effects like abdominal cramping.”
An expert weighs in
In a piece published by The Independent, Dr. Harry Emmerich warns of how drinking overly iced water on an empty stomach increases the risk of an esophageal spasm, which is when muscles in your esophagus suddenly contract, often causing temporary chest pains. Emmerich also reports how consuming large quantities of iced water can also mimic the sensation of ‘brain freeze’, which can result in discomfort.
“It’s also recommended to avoid drinking multiple glasses of iced water straight after eating. Drinking ice-cold water after a big meal can cause disruption to your digestive system, which may cause symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, and nausea.
“While the idea of drinking iced water during a heatwave may sound like instant relief, drinking large quantities may also result in a sudden drop in your body’s temperature.
This sudden temperature drop from overly iced water hinders your body’s natural cooling abilities, potentially resulting in brief feelings of dizziness. Emmerich describes how this sudden drop can cause your ‘heart rate to drop’ thanks to the ‘significant difference between your body temperature and the ice-cold water.
“During warm temperatures, it’s important to remember that drinking cool water, rather than excessively iced, can be more beneficial when it comes to gradually reducing your body’s temperature. Popping two or three large ice cubes into your drink, rather than multiple handfuls, can provide relief without any potential side effects.
“However, there are certain situations when it’s recommended to drink iced water during warm weather, particularly after a workout. Some research has indicated that cold water can delay the increase in core body temperature during exercise, helping to prevent the risk of overheating during a workout.
“Ultimately, it’s all about the quantity of iced water you’re drinking during hot weather. For most people, the occasional iced beverage will cause no harm during a heatwave, but side effects can be exacerbated for those with pre-existing health conditions and when consumed in overly large quantities.
“Side effects are also more likely to occur when you’re already dehydrated, which is why keeping an eye on hydration levels is ultimately the most important thing you can do during a heatwave, regardless of whether you’re drinking iced or room-temperature water.
“Staying hydrated is essential when it comes to preventing heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. As temperatures soar, your body loses much more fluid than normal through sweat, which is why it’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
“Other beverages like sports and fizzy drinks will also contribute to your daily fluid intake, but it’s important to steer clear of certain beverages during hot weather.
Which drinks should I avoid during a heatwave?
“As temperatures increase, it’s best to avoid drinking hot caffeinated drinks and alcohol. These drinks have dehydrating properties, making you more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses during warm weather.
“Drinking these beverages can also raise your body’s internal temperature, which is why it’s crucial to avoid drinking things like caffeinated tea and alcohol shortly before going to bed to avoid the risk of overheating.
“Enjoying a nightcap can make it even more difficult to get a good night’s sleep during warm weather, so it’s recommended to steer clear of alcohol entirely during a heatwave or to stop drinking for at least three hours before heading to bed.
Be mindful during warmer weather
“With the weather heating up, it’s essential to be mindful of your hydration levels. Rather than occasionally drinking large gulps of ice-cold water, it’s more effective to take regular sips of cool water throughout the day to help ward off heat-related illnesses,” added Scott Carswell.
“It’s also crucial to be mindful of the temperature of your beverages during hot weather. Avoid drinking excessively cold water on an empty stomach or straight after a carb-heavy meal to steer clear of any temporary digestion issues.
“It’s often thought that hot beverages can help you to cool down quicker by triggering sweating, but drinking large quantities of hot drinks when you’re already dehydrated can just exacerbate fluid loss, which may cause side effects like headaches and fatigue. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol are also associated with dehydrating effects, which is why it’s so essential that you steer away from these beverages to avoid hindering your body’s natural cooling properties.
“While some drinks are associated with providing ‘instant relief’ during warm weather, it’s more important to focus on maintaining a regular fluid intake throughout the day, rather than just causing your body more harm by gulping down large quantities of overly cold water all at once.”
Reach for fruits and veggies
Instead of that glass of iced water, why not reach for some fruits and veggies? Fruits and vegetables can significantly contribute to your hydration, especially during the summer months. While not as cold as iced water, many fruits and vegetables have a high water content, and incorporating them into your diet can help you meet your daily hydration needs.
Why fruits and vegetables are hydrating
- High water content: Many fruits and vegetables are naturally rich in water, with some, like watermelon and cucumber, containing over 90% water.
- Nutrient boost: Beyond water, these foods also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.
- Electrolyte replenishment: Some fruits and vegetables, like watermelon and oranges, are good sources of electrolytes like potassium, which can be depleted through sweating in the summer.
- Variety and flavor: Eat the rainbow! Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables offers a delicious and enjoyable way to stay hydrated, rather than relying solely on drinking water.
Examples of hydrating fruits and veggies
- Fruits: Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, oranges, pineapple.
- Vegetables: Cucumber, lettuce, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes.
- How to Incorporate Hydrating Foods
- Snack on fruits and vegetables: Enjoy them on their own, in salads, or as part of a trail mix.
- Add them to meals: Include vegetables in your main courses, salads, or as side dishes.
- Make hydrating soups and smoothies: Blend fruits and vegetables with water or yogurt for a refreshing and hydrating meal.
- Prepare hydrating snacks: Try making popsicles with fruits like watermelon or strawberries.
- Add them to your water: Infuse your water with cucumber slices, lemon, or berries for added flavor and hydration.
By including a variety of water-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet, you can effectively supplement your water intake and stay well-hydrated throughout the summer.
Summary
While it may feel refreshing, drinking iced water during warm weather isn’t necessarily the best way to hydrate. While iced water can lower your body temperature temporarily, it can also cause some issues, like esophageal spasms, digestive upset, and brain freeze. Additionally, iced water can make it harder for your body to absorb water and nutrients, and there is a potential for shock in cases of dehydration. Ultimately, the best temperature for water depends on individual preference and circumstances.
Regardless of the temperature, the most important thing is to drink enough water to stay hydrated. Listen to your body; if you enjoy iced water and it doesn’t cause any problems, it’s generally safe to drink. If you’re exercising in the heat, you may want to opt for slightly cooler water to help regulate your body temperature. If you’re concerned about the drawbacks, consider drinking water that is slightly cool or room temperature. Should you have any concerns about your hydration or the best temperature for water for your specific situation, consult with a healthcare professional.
This article was created at the WHN News Desk using some of the information provided by Freya Keeping on behalf of the experts at The Ice Maker Hub, unlocking the secrets of ice making and elevating your ice experiences to new heights.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN neither agrees nor disagrees with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Content may be edited for style and length.
References/Sources/Materials provided by:
- Research on the impact of drinking iced water during exercise – https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1550-2783-9-44
- Dr. Harry Emmerich’s warning over the effects of cold water – https://www.wmdt.com/2018/07/ice-cold-water-on-a-hot-day-can-be-harmful/
- The Independent article – https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/ice-water-hot-weather-b2778456.html
