Drinking hot water has recently become widespread as a daily habit promoted online as a solution to multiple health problems, from weight loss and improved skin radiance, to relieving sore throats and menstrual cramps.
Hydration remains essential for health, whether the water is hot, cold, or at room temperature. Staying hydrated supports digestion, circulation, kidney function, blood pressure regulation, and overall well-being. Studies suggest that not drinking enough water can make it harder to cope with daily stresses, and there is no strong evidence to suggest that hot water offers unique health benefits beyond those of regular water, aside from hydration itself.
There is no strong clinical evidence to prove that drinking hot water alone leads to significant weight loss. However, increasing fluid intake in general can help with weight management by promoting satiety and reducing consumption of sugary or high-calorie drinks. One small study showed that warm water slightly stimulates bowel movements, but this does not translate to fat burning.
In short, hot water may indirectly support your weight goals if it encourages you to drink more water or replace sugary drinks, but its temperature is not the deciding factor.
Warm liquids can soothe a sore throat and nasal congestion, as the warmth—and sometimes steam—helps to loosen mucus and calm irritated tissues. This effect isn't limited to hot water; warm tea, herbal infusions, or warm lemon water offer similar relief. While these drinks won't cure the infection or shorten the duration of the illness, they can significantly alleviate symptoms.
There is no scientific evidence to prove that drinking hot water improves skin or removes toxins. Staying hydrated helps maintain skin elasticity and prevents dryness, while toxins are removed from the body internally through the liver and kidneys, not by drinking hot water.
Applying heat to the affected area may help relieve menstrual cramps by relaxing muscles and improving blood circulation. However, there is no strong evidence that drinking hot water alone relieves pain, although some warm herbal teas may help due to their natural properties, not the heat of the water itself.
Tips about hot water spread quickly because drinking a warm beverage provides a sense of comfort and encourages increased fluid intake, and it can even become part of a soothing daily routine. This positive personal experience makes it easy to share stories on social media, even in the absence of strong scientific evidence.
Ultimately, hot water may help you feel relaxed or encourage you to hydrate daily, but it is not a magic cure.
The report was prepared by Lauren Ball, Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing, University of Queensland, and Emily Birch, Certified Dietitian and Lecturer, Southern Cross University.
