We have heard it a couple of times, drinking ice cold water can do a lot of harm to your body. So we have decided to research this matter and finally gather the straight facts. It is believed, and reposted, and shared through social media, that drinking ice cold water after a meal can cause a lot of problems to our health. The cold water will solidify the oil and fats you have consumed and it will line the colon, which may cause colon cancer, irritable bowel syndrome or bowel obstruction.
Here is an example of a viral post circulated through various social media platforms:
The TRUTH: This is a myth
According to a Colonic Wellness Clinic, that conducts research, treatment and management of Irritable bowel syndrome, and other colon related health problems, the following are causes of a clogged colon and toxic bowel:
- Too busy and stressful lifestyle
- Uneducated or lazy diet choices with hard to digest foods
- Not chewing food well enough
- Lack of fibre in the diet
- Junk and processed foods
- Saturated fats
- Lack of exercise
- Passive exposure to environmental pollutants and chemicals
- Exposure to occupational toxic pollutants
- Not drinking enough water
- Constant negative attitude or thoughts
These are the common causes, and take note that one of the causes enumerated on the list is NOT drinking enough water. It is not from drinking ice cold water.
Some people may also develop the following conditions:
It all comes down to the fact that drinking enough water everyday is essential to prevent diseases of the gut. Whether cold, hot, lukewarm or just room temperature, all that matters is that the water you drink is clean, safe, and enough to rehydrate you, and meet the needs of your body.
Is drinking cold water bad for you?
For most healthy people, no. Your body warms water to core temperature within minutes of drinking it, whatever temperature it starts at. Cold, room-temperature and warm water all hydrate you equally well, so the best temperature is simply the one you’ll drink more of.
Cold water and digestion
The idea that cold water “solidifies” fats in your stomach isn’t supported by evidence. Digestion relies on stomach acid and enzymes, not on the temperature of your drink, and anything you swallow is quickly brought to body temperature. Some people find warm drinks more comfortable after a meal, and that’s a matter of personal preference rather than health.
Cold water and exercise
Cool water is a good choice when you’re active or working in the heat. It helps bring your body temperature down, and most people find chilled water more refreshing, so they drink more of it. That makes it easier to replace the fluid you lose through sweat.
Side effects: when cold water might not suit you
Cold water is safe for most people, but a few may want to choose cool or room-temperature water instead:
- Sensitive teeth: very cold drinks can trigger a sharp twinge if you have worn enamel or receding gums.
- Migraines: some people who get migraines find ice-cold drinks can bring on a headache.
- Swallowing conditions: people with certain oesophageal conditions, such as achalasia, may find very cold drinks uncomfortable.
If you have a medical condition and aren’t sure, ask your GP.
Does cold water help you burn calories?
Only a tiny amount. Your body uses a little energy to warm cold water, but the effect is too small to make a real difference to your weight. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks matters far more.
Myth vs fact at a glance
- Myth: cold water after a meal causes bowel disease. Fact: there’s no evidence for this; not drinking enough water is a bigger problem for gut health.
- Myth: cold water doesn’t hydrate you as well. Fact: water hydrates you at any temperature.
- Myth: cold water “shocks” your system. Fact: for healthy people, drinking cold water is safe.
- Fact: chilled water is more appealing for most people, so it helps them drink enough.
Chilled, filtered water at work
If chilled water helps your team drink more, make it easy to get. Value H2O’s filtered water coolers provide chilled and hot water on tap from your mains supply, with servicing included, from $12 + GST a week. Try one free for 30 days, or read our guide to why drinking enough water matters.