It is a common query when feeling unwell: is drinking cold water advisable? When illness strikes, the body undergoes various changes, and proper hydration becomes a central aspect of recovery. The temperature of the fluids consumed can influence comfort and how the body responds to symptoms, leading many to consider the best approach for staying hydrated.
Understanding Hydration During Illness
Maintaining adequate fluid levels is important when the body is fighting an illness. Fevers, for instance, increase fluid loss through sweating as the body attempts to regulate its temperature. Daily water loss from fever can range from 17 to 35 ounces over a 24-hour period. Symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea further deplete the body’s fluid and electrolyte reserves.
Sufficient hydration helps support the immune system by aiding in the transport of infection-fighting cells. It also assists in regulating body temperature, moistening mucous membranes to act as a barrier against bacteria, and flushing out waste products.
How Cold Water Affects the Body When Sick
Consuming cold water when unwell can elicit specific physiological responses. For some, cold water provides temporary relief, especially with fever or overheating. While comforting, this cooling sensation may not significantly lower core body temperature and could even trigger shivering, paradoxically increasing it.
Cold water can cause a temporary constriction of blood vessels in the throat. This effect is short-lived, as the body works to restore normal blood flow to the area. For the digestive system, very cold water might slow down the digestive process by constricting blood vessels.
Cold Water and Specific Illness Symptoms
The impact of cold water can vary depending on the specific illness symptom. For a sore throat, cold liquids like ice water or ice pops may offer temporary numbing and pain relief. While cold water can cause vasoconstriction, potentially hindering healing, this effect is not prolonged with typical drinking.
For congestion, cold water does not significantly thin mucus. Warm liquids are more effective in loosening and clearing mucus. For fevers, cold water can provide a cooling sensation that feels good. Relying solely on cold water to reduce a fever is not recommended, as the body’s internal thermostat might counteract the cooling. With stomach upset, very cold water might induce cramps, making room-temperature fluids a more comfortable choice.
Beyond Cold Water: Other Hydration Choices
While cold water can offer temporary comfort, other fluid temperatures and types of beverages are also beneficial during illness. Room-temperature water is absorbed more efficiently by the body and is less likely to cause digestive discomfort. Warm liquids, such as herbal teas, broths, or warm water with honey, can be soothing for sore throats and help clear nasal congestion through steam.
Electrolyte-rich fluids are important, especially if there has been significant fluid loss from sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. These solutions help replenish minerals like sodium and potassium lost during illness. Avoid caffeinated and highly sugary drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration or offer little nutritional benefit. The most important consideration is consistent fluid intake to support the body’s recovery processes.