A new scientific perspective is urging people to reconsider their choice of hot versus cold drinks. What seems like a simple craving for hot masala chai in winter or an iced latte on a summer afternoon might actually influence mood, sleep, and digestion, depending on cultural habits and body responses.
According to Fox News Digital, a recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, highlighted in a San Diego State University (SDSU) press release, examined these effects among more than 400 Asian and White adults in the United States. The findings reveal that beverage temperature plays a far deeper physiological role than most of us realize.
How Temperature Affects Different Groups
The SDSU report noted a remarkable distinction between cultural groups. Asian participants who consumed more chilled beverages during warmer months were more likely to experience increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and abdominal discomfort. Meanwhile, White participants reported a different pattern. When they kept their drinks warm in winter, they tended to experience better sleep, reduced depression, and fewer gut issues.
Researchers suggested that these patterns reflect ingrained cultural consumption practices and variations in personal sensitivity to temperature. Those who frequently reported “cold hands,” for instance, appeared more vulnerable to adverse effects from cold beverages.
Wu Tianying, Associate Professor of Epidemiology at SDSU, explained that the study offers “a snapshot of how hot and cold consumption may relate to health outcomes.” She emphasized that while the findings establish associations, more controlled research is needed to explore cause and effect.
Why Warm Beverages Soothe the Mind
Experts believe warmth can have a calming physiological influence. Speaking to Fox News Digital, wellness specialist and occupational therapist Jessica Mack noted that warm foods and drinks may activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. By stimulating the vagus nerve, they can help lower heart rate, improve circulation, and encourage the release of serotonin.
Mack said the psychological association between warmth and comfort also plays a key role. A cozy cup of tea, soup, or even a heated drink on a cold evening can immediately shift the body away from stress mode.
A Small Choice That May Matter
The study arrives alongside separate research showing that morning cups of coffee can lift mood and boost enthusiasm in young adults. With beverages shaping both physical and emotional wellbeing in subtle but measurable ways, scientists argue that temperature habits deserve more attention in public health guidance.
As Wu put it in the SDSU report, these findings offer “broad relevance to everyday health choices,” particularly for individuals sensitive to cold exposure, such as older adults or those with poor circulation.
So the next time you choose between a steaming mug and a chilled tumbler, remember: your preference may hold clues about what your body truly needs. The right temperature might offer not only flavor satisfaction but also a healthier mind and calmer gut.
According to Fox News Digital, a recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, highlighted in a San Diego State University (SDSU) press release, examined these effects among more than 400 Asian and White adults in the United States. The findings reveal that beverage temperature plays a far deeper physiological role than most of us realize.
How Temperature Affects Different Groups
The SDSU report noted a remarkable distinction between cultural groups. Asian participants who consumed more chilled beverages during warmer months were more likely to experience increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and abdominal discomfort. Meanwhile, White participants reported a different pattern. When they kept their drinks warm in winter, they tended to experience better sleep, reduced depression, and fewer gut issues.
Researchers suggested that these patterns reflect ingrained cultural consumption practices and variations in personal sensitivity to temperature. Those who frequently reported “cold hands,” for instance, appeared more vulnerable to adverse effects from cold beverages.
Wu Tianying, Associate Professor of Epidemiology at SDSU, explained that the study offers “a snapshot of how hot and cold consumption may relate to health outcomes.” She emphasized that while the findings establish associations, more controlled research is needed to explore cause and effect.
Why Warm Beverages Soothe the Mind
Experts believe warmth can have a calming physiological influence. Speaking to Fox News Digital, wellness specialist and occupational therapist Jessica Mack noted that warm foods and drinks may activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. By stimulating the vagus nerve, they can help lower heart rate, improve circulation, and encourage the release of serotonin.
Mack said the psychological association between warmth and comfort also plays a key role. A cozy cup of tea, soup, or even a heated drink on a cold evening can immediately shift the body away from stress mode.
A Small Choice That May Matter
The study arrives alongside separate research showing that morning cups of coffee can lift mood and boost enthusiasm in young adults. With beverages shaping both physical and emotional wellbeing in subtle but measurable ways, scientists argue that temperature habits deserve more attention in public health guidance.
As Wu put it in the SDSU report, these findings offer “broad relevance to everyday health choices,” particularly for individuals sensitive to cold exposure, such as older adults or those with poor circulation.
So the next time you choose between a steaming mug and a chilled tumbler, remember: your preference may hold clues about what your body truly needs. The right temperature might offer not only flavor satisfaction but also a healthier mind and calmer gut.
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