Hello! I hope this week’s blog will give you a bit of information that you didn’t have before you clicked on it. That is what happened to me. I was searching Google one day and an article popped up that I thought was interesting and worthy of sharing.
HEALTH
My goal when delivering your weekly blogs is to entertain, share and perhaps inform you about what is on my mind today. Since High Desert Doppler is a healthcare facility, it stands to reason that the blogs relate to healthcare. They may not always pertain to ultrasound but that’s okay.
BENEFITS
The article I read touts the benefits of drinking hot water. This is a foreign concept to me unless the hot water is used for making tea or coffee. Drinking plain hot water, huh? Okay, lets explore the benefits and how it might help in our wellness journey.
HOT H2o
Staying hydrated is essential for life and critical for maintaining good health. We’ve heard that drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day is average. Most of us grab a glass of water poured from the faucet or bottle and drink it cold or room temperature. It never occurred to me to heat it up. My question is why.
HEALTH BENEFITS
An article from medicalnewstoday.com reports that drinking your water hot can provide a range of health benefits. Here are eight potential benefits.
- Healthier digestion. Hot water helps break down food faster than cold water.
- Body detoxification. When water is hot enough to raise your body temperature, it can cause sweating which expels toxins.
- Improved circulation. Hot water is a vasodilator meaning it expands the blood vessels, improving circulation.
- Weight loss. Raising the water temperature increases your metabolism which could increase weight loss.
- Reduce pain. Hot water improves circulation and may improve blood flow particularly to injured muscles. Note that no research has directly linked hot water consumption to pain relief.
- Fighting colds and improving sinus health. Hot water may help mucous move more quickly and encourage coughing and nose-blowing to be more productive.
- Encourage consumption of coffee and tea. Although they tend to dehydrate the body, coffee and tea offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation.
- Reduces stress. The warmth of hot water can play a role in improving mood by calming stress and anxiety.
NOT A FIX ALL
We’ve read about the benefits of consuming hot water. Don’t be under the delusion it is a cure all. If you frequent Mc Donald’s, scarf Cheetos and chug beer, the benefits of consuming hot water may be minimal.
HDD
If you have ever had an ultrasound, depending on the kind you require, you may be encouraged to drink plenty of water prior to your exam. By the way, hot water is not necessary! Always check with your healthcare provider for clarification. Remember if diagnostic ultrasound is indicated, call us at 505-350-3397.