Lifestyle

Why drinking cold water after a meal could be harmful

By

bukky

Published on December 19, 2024

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Many people enjoy drinking cold water, especially after a heavy meal, because it feels refreshing and helps cool down the body.

It’s common to think that cold water aids digestion, however, not many people realise that drinking cold water after eating could actually harm your body in several ways.

This doesn’t mean you should avoid cold water altogether, knowing when and how to drink it can help you stay healthier.

Here are a few reasons why this habit could be more harmful than you think.

1. Cold water slows down digestion

Drinking cold water right after eating can slow down your digestion. Cold water can make the fats in your food harden, making them difficult to break down. Your digestive system has to work harder, which may cause bloating, indigestion, or a heavy feeling in your stomach. Warm or room-temperature water helps digestion flow more smoothly and is gentler on your system.

2. Cold water can cause stomach cramps

For some people, drinking cold water can cause stomach discomfort or cramps, especially after a meal. When cold water enters your stomach, it shocks the system and causes your muscles to contract. This can cause an uncomfortable or painful tightness in the stomach, particularly for those with sensitive digestion or conditions like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

3. It may lead to a build-up of mucus

Cold water can thicken mucus in your respiratory system. When you drink it after a meal, it may make your body produce more mucus to balance the temperature. This can leave you feeling congested or with a blocked nose, particularly for those who already suffer from colds, allergies, or respiratory problems. Warm water, on the other hand, can help clear mucus and keep your system running smoothly.

4. It can make you feel bloated

Cold water can cause food to move slower through your digestive system, which may lead to bloating and discomfort. It also causes your body to use more energy to warm the water to body temperature, which can make you feel sluggish. If you’re trying to avoid that heavy, bloated feeling after eating, it’s best to stick to room-temperature water.