As Thailand faces another relentless hot season, one question sits on nearly every tongue: should you reach for ice-cold water or stick to something closer to room temperature? New research and expert guidance highlighted in a recent Washington Post article reveal that for most people, hydration comes down more to personal comfort than scientific necessity—but there are notable exceptions worth considering (Washington Post).
Staying hydrated is crucial for all, especially in Thailand’s tropical climate, where soaring temperatures and high humidity can trigger rapid fluid loss, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses. Water regulates body temperature, lubricates joints, and helps eliminate waste. Thai health authorities align with global recommendations, suggesting that men aim for about 13 cups and women about 9 cups of water and other beverages daily, with increased needs during outdoor activities or periods of intense heat. But what about the temperature of that life-saving glass?
While many assume ice water is the ultimate thirst quencher in hot weather, science offers a nuanced view. According to dietitians and exercise physiologists, there is no single “best” water temperature for healthy hydration. Individual preference is the overriding factor. As noted by a nutritionist from the Mayo Clinic, “It is really important to stay hydrated, so I think whatever your preference is, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.” This sentiment is echoed by university researchers who stress that supporting “better and continuous hydration” matters more than obsessing over the specific temperature of your drink.
Yet distinct groups may reap added benefits from chilled drinks, especially athletes. A study of 45 fit men found that those who drank cold water during one-hour workouts experienced smaller rises in core body temperature compared to those receiving room-temperature drinks. This cooling effect—the result of blood cooled by cold liquid in the mouth and throat circulating through the body—can be especially useful for athletes wearing heavy or heat-trapping uniforms, such as football or hockey players, where efficient cooling is both a performance and safety concern. A gastroenterologist who has studied cold water intake and metabolism notes, “Cold beverages are better than, let’s say, room-temperature or hot beverages,” for these physically demanding contexts.
For most people, though, choosing ice, tap, or even warm water remains a matter of preference. Many Thais find a glass of cold water especially refreshing after a long exposure in Bangkok traffic or after vigorous activities like Muay Thai or community football. “It’s about what refreshes and motivates you to keep drinking,” explained an exercise science expert at a major regional university.
However, cold water is not suitable for everyone. People prone to migraines may experience discomfort when drinking iced water, particularly when sipped through a straw. Individuals with achalasia, a disorder affecting esophageal muscle function, can experience pain from cold food and drinks. Dental sensitivity also makes iced beverages uncomfortable for some, and in rare cases, patients with certain cardiovascular conditions may encounter issues with cold beverages affecting blood pressure or heart rhythm, as documented in peer-reviewed medical research (PubMed).
Conversely, warm or hot drinks remain essential in Thai and global culture for their therapeutic value. Research from the UK demonstrates that consuming hot beverages, such as tea or soup, significantly relieves symptoms of respiratory infections—providing more sustained relief for sore throats, chills, and tiredness than the same drink at room temperature. Thai home remedies, such as hot ginger tea (น้ำขิง) or lemon-infused honey water, are rooted in similar traditions, commonly used for treating colds or soothing a scratchy throat. Local physicians recommend warm teas for children and adults alike for coughs, noting the soothing effect on irritated throats. For sleep, too, warm beverages—like chamomile tea or herbal drinks—frequently appear in Thai routines, with the calming ritual often helping signal bedtime.
How does this play out in everyday Thai life? Residents often tailor their beverage choices to the day’s needs and cultural context. An elderly Bangkok resident may start the day with a warm tea, switch to chilled water after shopping at a bustling street market, then enjoy a hot bowl of soup in the evening to encourage restful sleep. Meanwhile, young students and athletes often favor ice-cold water or sports drinks for refreshment, especially after strenuous activity.
From a historical standpoint, hydration practices in Thailand have long been shaped by climate, available resources, and culture. For centuries, cooling drinks, herbal teas, and coconut water have served to quench thirst and restore balance in the heat, while temples and public spaces often provided communal pots of water for travelers. The use of ice, originally a luxury item in early 20th-century Siam, became widespread only as refrigeration technology advanced. Now, iced drinks are a staple in homes, cafes, and convenience stores across the country.
Looking ahead, rising global temperatures and urbanization will likely bring new hydration challenges for Thais. Urban heat islands in Bangkok and other cities intensify the effects of climate change on daily life. Ensuring easy access to safe, clean water—regardless of temperature—remains vital, particularly for vulnerable groups such as outdoor workers, children, and the elderly. Expanding public awareness around the warning signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is equally important, especially as festivals and religious events increasingly coincide with periods of extreme weather. Educational efforts in schools and communities already teach children to “drink before you feel thirsty,” but experts suggest further public health campaigns are needed to reinforce these habits.
For those managing chronic health conditions—like heart disease, migraines, or esophageal disorders—consultation with a medical professional is advised to tailor hydration advice, including water temperature, to individual needs. For the general population, choosing the water temperature that encourages regular consumption is the most critical factor.
In summary, the verdict is clear: whether you prefer your hydration icy-cold, cool, or warm is largely up to you, provided you make it a habit and listen to your body’s signals for thirst. In Thailand’s sweltering climate, cooling off with iced water or refreshing homemade drinks remains a cultural touchstone, but don’t hesitate to opt for warm tea or room-temperature water if it suits your health and comfort better. The universal rule? Keep sipping—your body will thank you.
For practical guidance, Thai readers should focus on drinking water throughout the day—before, during, and after physical activities or outdoor exposure. Carry a reusable bottle, refill it often, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty, especially during heat waves. Parents and caregivers should pay special attention to young children and the elderly, who may not recognize thirst as readily. And whatever your preference, remember that the best drink is the one you enjoy and are likely to consume again and again.
For further insights, see the latest expert coverage from The Washington Post at Washington Post and review Thai health ministry recommendations on hydration.