Why Shouldn't We Drink Cold Water?

Author: Maryam Ayres Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: February 12, 2026

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Consumption of cold water interferes with digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Consumption of cold or ice water is harmful to health. And here are four reasons to think before we reach for the cold drink again:

1. Disrupts digestion

Consumption of very cold water can complicate the process of food processing, as it causes constriction of blood vessels . This can slow down digestion , and when food is not processed properly, the body cannot absorb nutrients.

2. "Washes away" nutrients

Normal body temperature is 37oC. When we consume foods or beverages whose temperature is lower, the body must expend energy that could be used to digest and assimilate food. The end result is again a lack of nutrients.

3. The risk of sore throat increases

Consumption of cold water can cause accumulations on the mucous membrane, which acts as a protective layer of the respiratory tract . Obstruction makes the respiratory tract vulnerable to various infections , which increases the risk of sore throat.

4. Decreases heart rate

Ice or very cold water lowers the heart rate . Studies show that its consumption stimulates the vagus nerve. It is the tenth cranial nerve and is an important part of the body's autonomic nervous system.

The vagus nerve is related to the heart rhythm . The low temperature of the water acts as its stimulant and ultimately leads to a decrease in heart rate.