How Cold and Hot Water Can Affect Us

You’ve probably noticed that the body has very different reactions to cold and hot water. For example, after a cool shower, it seems that the mind is completely clear, while hot water relaxes you.

5-Minute Crafts is going to explain how cold and hot water can influence our condition and our entire body.

How cold water affects us

• Cold water slows down blood flow, which helps reduce pain and inflammation.
• It also helps produce endorphins, which have a positive effect on the functioning of the brain and how you feel.
• When the body comes into contact with cold water, it reacts to the change in the environment. Such an event makes the body activate its protection better, which has a positive effect on the immune system.
• Washing your face with cold water has a positive influence on skin condition: it might prevent acne, reduce swelling, and improve blood circulation.
• A cold shower may be an effective way to fight stress and bad mental conditions.
• If you drink cold water when doing sports, the body temperature will rise slower, so you are able to exercise for a longer time without feeling tired.

Important: It’s not recommended to drink cold water because it might slow down the heart rate. Besides, if you think you have the flu or a cold, it’s better to drink room-temperature water or even hot water in order not to interfere with the function of the immune system.

How hot water affects us

• If you have symptoms of a cold, your condition might get better if your drink hot water: the steam will go up and help with sinus congestion. Plus, hot drinks help us get rid of a sore throat and coughing.
• When you drink warm water, you also help your digestive system, as it’s easier for the body to digest food and the metabolism speeds up.
• A glass of hot water on an empty stomach might help us get rid of problems with the intestines.
• Hot showers and baths help expand the blood vessels, improving blood flow. It helps ease muscles and reduce the intensity of some pain, like during periods, bad headaches, and muscle cramps.
• Some hot drinks, such as black tea, reduce levels of stress and help fight anxiety.