WHAT-ER Chilling Truth!
Think before you gulp down glasses of ice-cold water to beat the summer heat as it might be doing more harm than good
As summer temperatures soar and heatwaves break records across the globe, many instinctively reach for that ice-cold bottle of water. It’s an almost reflexive act — one that offers instant, tangible relief from the scorching sun. But experts warn that overdoing the chill might be doing more harm than good.
Karishmma Chawla, Functional Medicine Nutritionist & Lifestyle Educator says that as per several theories and research, cold water is like a villain. Chawla highlights that there’s more to the story than mere cold temperature. “Let’s open our arena with the microscopic view of functional medicine nutrition and take a deeper look — where the cold-water migraine or cold stress response is possibly just another expression of low progesterone levels or food sensitivity.”
The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective aligns with Chawla’s caution. In TCM, the stomach and spleen are considered the epicentre of digestion and energy transformation. Cold substances, especially excessive ice water, are said to weaken these organs’ function by slowing the digestive “fire,” or yang energy. When this vital fire is dampened, the result can be bloating, fatigue, and even weakened immunity.
Instead of turning to plain ice water, Chawla offers a unique and flavourful solution rooted in both tradition and science. Being a gut expert, she gives a handy tip — make your own ‘healthy booster ice cubes.’ Chawla says, “Add in traditional gems like turmeric, ginger, carrot, lemon, and gond katira. Make ice cubes out of it and drop three pieces into your water. Sip into the healthier world.” Harmful Effects
The effects of ice-cold water can go beyond the digestive tract. Studies have shown that extremely cold beverages can narrow blood vessels and potentially shock the system, sometimes triggering sore throats or even headaches in sensitive individuals. Nyra Kalvani, a TCM practitioner and botanist explains: “From a Chinese medicine standpoint, sudden exposure to cold can cause stagnation of qi, or life energy, especially in the stomach area. This can manifest as stomach cramps, fatigue, or imbalance in overall energy flow.”
Hydration, of course, remains crucial — especially during hot months when the body loses fluids rapidly through sweat. But experts stress that the temperature of that hydration matters.
“Room temperature or slightly cool water helps the body absorb fluids more efficiently,” says Dr. Mira Joshi, Integrative health coach. “It doesn’t shock the gut and supports smooth digestion. Cold water might feel satisfying, but it
can reduce enzymatic activity in the stomach, delaying the diges-tive process.”
Mindful Consumption
What about those moments when only ice-cold water feels satisfying? TCM encourages mindfulness and moderation. Instead of gulping down an entire glass of icy water, sip slowly and allow your body to adjust. Combining the drink with warming herbs like ginger or sipping herbal teas throughout the day can also balance internal temperatures while offering hydration.
Another traditional tip borrowed from both Ayurveda and Chinese medicine: consume seasonal, cooling foods rather than relying solely on chilled drinks. Think cucumber, watermelon, mint, and lightly steamed vegetables — all of which can cool the body without taxing the digestive system.
This summer, as we face extreme heat and rising global temperatures, perhaps the best approach is balance. There’s nothing wrong with an occasional cold drink, especially when you’re overheated, but making it your go-to may not be the wisest move. As Chawla puts it: “Think bio-individuality — different bodies express vividly. So listen to yours, and hydrate smartly.