Yale gastroenterologist Louise Wang evaluates the belief that drinking hot water aids digestion, concluding that scientific evidence does not support this claim.
Louise Wang, a gastroenterologist at Yale University, addresses the popular belief that drinking hot water improves digestion. With a growing interest in the effects of water temperature on gastrointestinal health, Dr. Wang reviewed the scientific literature to determine if this practice has any tangible benefits. Many believe that consuming hot water can aid in digestion and metabolic processes, but this notion has yet to be substantiated by rigorous research.
In her analysis, Dr. Wang emphasizes the lack of conclusive scientific evidence supporting the advantages of hot water versus cold or room temperature water in terms of gastrointestinal health. She notes that while some people report feeling better when they consume warm fluids, this could be attributed to personal preferences or psychological factors rather than physiological benefits. The conclusion points towards the possibility that the benefits associated with hot water may be more cultural than clinical.
In light of this information, individuals may want to consider their hydration choices without overemphasizing the temperature of the liquids they consume. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, but it appears that the temperature of the water may have little impact on digestive efficiency, shifting the focus back to the importance of drinking enough fluids in general.
