Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Vedat Göral explained the damage that cold drinks consumed to cool down in hot weather cause to gastrointestinal health. Prof. Dr. Vedat Göral: “Drinking cold water may cause negative effects for some people. A normal person’s body temperature is 36 to 37 degrees. The 10 to 12 degree difference between the cold water we drink and our body temperature does not cause any problems. However, if the water gets colder, our body may start to get damaged. Drinking cold water quickly can cause contractions and discomfort in the esophagus. “Drinking cold water in people with gastritis and ulcer disease will increase stomach acid, causing excessive gas in the stomach, cramp-like pain, burning and increased stomach discomfort,” he said.
“INCREASES INTESTINAL MOVEMENTS”
Prof. Dr. Vedat Göral continued: “Drinking very quickly, especially very cold water, can cause stomach pain, cramps and gas formation. However, for those who do not have stomach complaints, drinking cold water does not cause any harm; on the contrary, it takes the heat from the body and the person feels better. Drinking cold water for a thirsty person also increases the person’s performance. Drinking cold water causes increased bowel movements and causes abdominal pain, gas and bloating. Therefore, if you drink cold water, it should be drunk slowly and in small doses. The ideal temperature of cold water to drink should be 16 degrees. “In order to avoid negative effects at lower temperatures, it is better to drink cold water by adding some warm water.”