Can warm water help in digestion? My mom says YES!

From eating fried and oily foods and overeating to following an unhealthy lifestyle, there are a plethora of reasons why you experience digestive issues. Whenever my mom suffered from common digestive problems, such as constipation or gas, she used to drink warm water. According to my mom, drinking warm water on an empty stomach helps her pass her stool smoothly. Well, my mom is not the only one who thinks warm water promotes digestion, it is believed by many. To find out if it works, we asked a renowned nutritionist to spill the facts.

Health Shots spoke to Dietitian and Nutritionist Divya Gopal to know more about the benefits of drinking warm water for digestion. She says, “Drinking hot water helps you stay hydrated, but it can also help with digestion, stress relief, congestion relief, and comfort.”

What are the benefits of drinking warm water for digestion?

Here are 7 ways drinking warm water can potentially help with better digestion

1. Stimulates digestive enzymes

“When warm water enters the stomach, it helps to activate digestive enzymes, facilitating smoother digestion,” says Gopal. Warm water acts as a natural stimulant for the digestive system by promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes. Enzymes play a crucial role in breaking down food into smaller pieces, promoting the absorption of nutrients.

2. Manages stress

Stress can have a significant impact on digestive health, leading to symptoms such as indigestion, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea. Drinking warm water can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, which in turn can benefit digestion. “The warmth of the water has a soothing effect on the body and can help calm the nervous system, easing digestion issues,” explains Gopal.

3. Relieves constipation

One of the most notable benefits of warm water for digestion is its ability to alleviate constipation. Warm water helps to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements, making it easier to pass waste through the colon. Drink warm water on an empty stomach if you experience constipation daily.

4. Reduces bloating and gas

Bloating and gas are common digestive issues that can be uncomfortable. Gopal recommends, “Drinking warm water to alleviate these symptoms by promoting better digestion and reducing the accumulation of gas in the intestines.” It happens because warm water relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, helping trapped gas pass out.

5. Aids in detoxification

Warm water can support the body’s natural detoxification process by flushing out toxins and waste products from the digestive system. When consumed on an empty stomach, warm water can help kickstart the detoxification process by stimulating bowel movements and promoting the elimination of waste. Furthermore, warm water encourages sweating, which is another way the body expels toxins.

6. Keeps you hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for better digestion, and drinking warm water can be a more pleasant way to ensure you consume an adequate amount of fluids throughout the day. Gopal says, “If your body is dehydrated, you may find it difficult to pass stool.” So make sure you are well hydrated.

7. Improves nutrient absorption

Proper absorption of nutrients is essential for better digestion. According to Gopal, “Warm water ensures that nutrients are effectively extracted from food and absorbed into the bloodstream. This can keep digestive issues at bay.”

When is the best time to drink warm water?

The best time to drink warm water is in the morning, on an empty stomach. It helps kickstart your metabolism, aids digestion, and hydrates your body. Additionally, consuming warm water before meals can promote digestion and prevent overeating by making you feel fuller. Warm water is also beneficial during the winter season or after physical activity to maintain body temperature and replenish fluids. Ultimately, incorporating warm water into your daily routine can contribute to overall well-being.