Drinking cold water may seem like a harmless habit, especially after a large meal or on a hot day. However, various studies and observations indicate that doing so immediately after eating could have effects that go beyond the simple feeling of freshness. Below, we explain what really happens in your body when you drink cold water right after eating and how to do it in a healthier way.
The effect of cold water on digestion
When you finish eating, your body begins a complex process to digest and assimilate food. The stomach begins to work at a warm internal temperature, ideal for breaking down fats and nutrients.
However, when drinking cold water immediately after eating, there is a sudden change in temperature that can:
- Temporarily reduce stomach temperature, slowing down digestion.
- Solidify fats in fatty foods, making it difficult for them to break down.
- Cause a feeling of heaviness or bloating, especially in people with slow digestion.
This does not mean that cold water is harmful in itself, but that the timing of its consumption can influence the digestive process.