As temperatures rise, many people are taking steps to keep cool and hydrated during the hot weather. While reaching for a cold drink or ice lolly may seem like the best choice, research suggests that hot beverages like tea and coffee could actually help cool you down.
A study conducted in 2012 by University of Ottawa researchers examined the impact of consuming hot drinks on body temperature. Surprisingly, the findings indicated that drinking a hot beverage can have a cooling effect on the body.
Dr. Ollie Jay, a study author, explained to Smithsonian Mag that hot drinks lead to increased sweating, which, when the sweat evaporates, helps lower the body’s heat storage. This process ultimately results in a cooling effect, compensating for the initial heat from the hot drink.
Sweating is a natural mechanism that aids in regulating body temperature by dissipating excess heat through evaporation from the skin’s surface. However, in humid conditions, this cooling mechanism is less effective, making hot drinks less beneficial for cooling down.
Dr. Jay advised that in hot and dry climates, opting for hot drinks can be beneficial for cooling purposes. On the contrary, in humid environments where sweating and evaporation are limited, it is advisable to choose cold beverages for cooling effects.
In conclusion, the effectiveness of hot drinks in cooling the body depends on the climate conditions. In dry heat, hot beverages can assist in cooling, while in humid weather, cold drinks are more suitable for maintaining a comfortable temperature.
