We’ve all been told to drink more water. But how much is enough? And what temperature should it be? While we know that staying hydrated is crucial, the ideal amount and temperature of water we should consume is often debated. Dr. Christian Merkel, a dermatologist, allergist, and nutritional physician, helps us navigate these questions.
“In theory, you should aim for around 2-3 liters of water per day. In medical school, we learn that 30-40 milliliters per kilogram of body weight is ideal. For a 70-kilogram individual, this equates to about two liters daily,” explains Dr. Merkel. However, he emphasizes that a significant portion of our water intake comes from our diet. Physical activity and hot weather increase our fluid needs, so adjust your intake accordingly.
Dr. Merkel cautions against overconsumption of water, as it can lead to a depletion of essential salts in the body. While we often focus on the quantity of water, its temperature is often overlooked. “This topic rarely comes up in my practice, but there’s a real optimal water temperature for the body,” he notes. This temperature is especially important for certain individuals.
“Lukewarm water is ideal,” Dr. Merkel advises, highlighting that the optimal temperature is around 36 degrees Celsius, matching our body temperature. He explains that very cold drinks need to be warmed up in our gastrointestinal tract, while very hot drinks can irritate our digestive organs. “This is why, in Ayurvedic practices, beverages are always served at 36 degrees. However, in everyday life, room temperature is also acceptable.”
Why is lukewarm water better? “Lukewarm water is known for its pain-relieving properties, even for those prone to migraines,” Dr. Merkel advises. He strongly discourages migraine sufferers from drinking refrigerated water. Lukewarm water also offers relaxing and digestive benefits. “For those with digestive issues, such as constipation, a glass of lukewarm or slightly warmed water first thing in the morning can help relax the gastrointestinal tract, stimulate digestion, and boost metabolism,” he explains.
Why is ice-cold water not good for us? Many people instinctively reach for ice-cold water after exercising, during the summer, or on vacation. Dr. Merkel cautions against this habit: “Cold water can irritate the body and also stimulate the sweat glands even more, causing you to lose additional fluids and valuable minerals.”
By understanding the benefits of lukewarm water, we can make informed choices about our hydration habits for optimal health and well-being.
