Cold Water May Affect Stomach Function
Drinking ice water during meals may affect digestion more than many people realise. Traditional Chinese medicine has long suggested that warm drinks support digestion, while cold drinks may slow it down.
TCM practitioner Sandra Lanshin Chiu says warmth helps the digestive system work more smoothly. She said cold drinks may interfere with normal stomach activity, especially during meals.
Study Links Ice Water to Reduced Stomach Contractions
Chiu also referred to a 2020 study published in the European Journal of Nutrition. The study examined how water temperature affects stomach contractions and appetite in healthy adults.
According to the findings, drinking ice water temporarily reduced normal stomach contractions compared with warm water. People who drank ice water also ate less afterward. This suggests that water temperature may influence stomach function and appetite.
Warm Water and Broth May Support Digestion
In traditional Chinese practice, warm water or hot broth is often preferred during meals. Chiu said warm broth may help prepare the digestive system to receive food.
She added that warmth may support blood circulation to the gastrointestinal tract. This may help the body absorb nutrients more comfortably and effectively.
People who often experience bloating may want to observe how cold drinks affect their body. However, experts also note that digestion is influenced by many factors, including fiber intake, stress, alcohol, probiotics, and overall eating habits.
