Medicinal traditions vary throughout the world: there are hundreds of thousands of knowledge associated with this practice, which are based on very different methods –and even conceptions of the world. Nevertheless, sometimes something as simple as a habit of drinking warm water can be a universal remedy.
Both traditional Chinese medicine like Ayurvedic from India recommend drinking warm water for its multiple benefits. And not just fasting, but throughout the day.
It is not a miracle remedy. Drinking warm water is something we must do to prevent our blood vessels from being compressed., which makes digestion and hydration difficult, and which is precisely what happens when we drink cold water. This, according to a study published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research.
Also, cold water wears out the body, which has to regulate the temperature after ingestionand creates excess mucus that can disrupt immune system functions.
So drinking warm – not hot – water, either on an empty stomach or during the day, is not only a good habit for the reasons that we will explain below, but because it will help you avoid cold water. It is not a miracle remedy, but simply a good habit – and traditional medicines and their practitioners know it.
15 universal benefits of drinking warm water
1. Speed up metabolism
During the night, the metabolism slows down to promote rest. When you wake up, drinking warm water helps to reactivate it more quickly, which encourages it to accelerate for longer and stay that way throughout the day.
2. Reduces toxins
The endocrine system of the body is activated by warm water – which is the process that makes us sweat – which contributes to the release of toxins.
3. Cleanses the digestive tract
Cold water promotes fat deposits to solidify, while warm water helps to dissolve them, keeping the digestive tract clean.
4. Purifies the blood
Toxins circulate through the blood. Therefore, according to Ayurvedic medicine, the water should be drunk lukewarm and in copper containers so that it has a purifying effect. There are no scientific studies on this, but it is known that copper purifies the blood, which is why there is a wide range of containers made of this metal.
5. Hydrates
Contrary to what it may seem, warm water also hydrates, only it is not as «refreshing» as cold or warm water. In addition, taking it on an empty stomach helps you reach the daily goal you need in terms of water consumption.
6. Improves circulation
Warm water breaks down buildups of all kinds in the arteries, thus improving blood circulation.
7. Helps avoid constipation
Stomach constipation usually occurs due to lack of water in the body. Drinking warm water helps to hydrate the body from the first hour, which will prevent constipation.
8. Facilitates evacuation
Since it promotes bowel movement, it can promote bowel movements within a few minutes of drinking water in the morning. Evacuating first thing in the morning is best, as other activities of the body throughout the day can make this important daily task difficult.
9. It can promote weight loss
Drinking warm water on an empty stomach and with lemon is not a miracle remedy, but it can contribute to weight loss, since it provides a feeling of satiety that leads to consuming less food in the morning. In addition, as we have already said, it activates the metabolism, which slows down at night.
10. Stops premature aging
Premature aging is due to the presence of toxins in the body, but warm water can help cleanse the body of those toxins, while repairing skin cells to increase elasticity.
11. Eliminate acne
Thanks to its effect detoxwarm water helps improve the appearance of the skin and eliminate acne and blackheads caused by toxins locked in the pores, as well as excess oil.
12. Keeps hair strong and healthy
The scalp is part of the skin –our largest organ–, and it is where ramifications of blood vessels are formed. Keeping the body hydrated helps this part of the skin and these blood vessels stay healthy and grow strong, dandruff-free hair.
13. Relieves pain
It can be an aid in relieving pain caused by menstruation or headaches, as it relaxes the muscles and, as we have already said, it also allows better circulation.
14. Relaxes the body
By promoting better functioning of the body and giving us a moment of relaxation when consuming it, warm water helps calm the nervous system, which can save us a lot of stress throughout the day.
15. Promotes a better mood
According to Chinese medicine, drinking hot water relaxes and activates the chi, the vital energy. In its own way, science has proven it: According to a study published in Scienceexperiencing something physically warm helps promote interpersonal warmth that has a great influence on humor, making us more generous.
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