There’s nothing quite like the feeling of coming in from the cold after a long day and warming up with a hot beverage.
Whether it’s coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or something stronger, a warm drink can help chase away the chill and make you feel cozy and comfortable. But have you ever considered drinking something cold on a chilly day? Believe it or not, there are some excellent reasons to do just that. Let’s take a look at why cold drinks are the best choice for chilly days.
Cold Drinks Help Boost Your Metabolism
One of the best reasons to turn to a cold beverage when the weather is cold outside is that it can help boost your metabolism.
Drinking cold water, for example, can help increase your metabolic rate by up to 30% for as long as 90 minutes after you drink it. This is because your body has to work harder to bring the cold water up to your body temperature, burning more calories in the process.
So if you’re looking for a simple way to burn off a few extra calories and stay warm at the same time, drinking cold water is a great option.
Cold Drinks Can Improve Your Mood
Drinking something cold on a chilly day can also help improve your mood. Research has shown that people who drink cold drinks are often happier and more alert than those who only drink warm drinks.
This is because the cold temperature of the beverage can help stimulate the release of dopamine and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. So if you’re feeling down or sluggish on a cold day, a cold beverage might be just what you need to lift your spirits and feel more energetic.
Cold Drinks Can Help Replace Electrolytes
Another great reason to choose a cold drink on a chilly day is that it can help replace electrolytes that you may have lost through sweating or just being in an excessively dry environment.
Electrolytes are important minerals that help regulate many bodily processes, including water balance and nerve function. When you’re cold, the air may be dry, and you may not feel like drinking as much water as you should.
However, drinking a cold beverage that includes electrolytes, such as a sports drink or coconut water, can help replenish your body and keep you feeling your best.
Cold Drinks Can Help Reduce Inflammation
If you suffer from chronic inflammation, such as joint pain, digestive issues, or skin problems, drinking cold beverages can help you find relief.
Cold drinks can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the body by constricting blood vessels and slowing down the flow of blood to affected areas. This can help reduce pain and discomfort and allow your body to heal more quickly. So if you’re dealing with chronic pain or inflammation, consider swapping out your warm beverage for a cold one to see if it provides you with any relief.
Cold Drinks Can Help You Stay Hydrated
Finally, drinking cold beverages can help you stay hydrated throughout the day, even on a chilly day when you might not feel like drinking a lot of water.
Cold beverages are often more refreshing and pleasant to drink than warm ones, which can help you remember to stay hydrated even when the weather isn’t hot. And staying hydrated is important for many aspects of your health, including digestion, cognition, and overall energy levels.
So if you’re struggling to drink enough water on a cold day, try swapping out your warm beverage for a cold one to help keep yourself hydrated and healthy.
In Conclusion
While a hot beverage might seem like the obvious choice on a chilly day, there are actually many reasons to consider drinking something cold instead.
Whether you’re looking to boost your metabolism, improve your mood, replace lost electrolytes, reduce inflammation, or stay hydrated, a cold beverage can provide you with the benefits you need to feel your best. So next time you’re feeling chilly, reach for a cold drink and enjoy the many benefits it has to offer.