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| - Last Updated on July 4, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
An article claims that drinking hot water can act as a natural blood thinner and help in cholesterol management. Our fact check reveals it’s Mostly False.
The Claim
An article on a website called Herzindagi suggests that drinking hot water can thin the blood naturally and be beneficial for high cholesterol levels. It also lists several other health benefits related to drinking hot water.
Fact Check
How do blood thinners work?
Blood thinners work by interfering with the clotting ability of the blood. They can be of two main types: anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin and heparin, reduce the action of clotting factors, which are proteins in the blood that control bleeding. Antiplatelet drugs, like aspirin and clopidogrel, prevent platelets (a type of blood cell) from clumping together to form clots. Both types of blood thinners help prevent the formation of dangerous clots that can lead to conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and deep vein thrombosis.
Can drinking hot water thin your blood?
No, hot water cannot act as a natural blood thinner. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that drinking hot water can thin the blood. Blood thinners, medically known as anticoagulants, are substances that help prevent blood clots. Common blood thinners include medications like warfarin, heparin, and newer anticoagulants like rivaroxaban. These medications work by interfering with the blood’s clotting mechanisms.
Hot water, on the other hand, does not contain any active ingredients that can influence blood viscosity or clotting factors. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, as is mentioned in this well-detailed review from 2019. But, water temperature does not have a specific impact on blood thickness.
Drinking too much water can dilute the proteins and electrolytes in your blood, but it won’t thin your blood or prevent clot formation. Overhydration can lead to hyponatremia, a condition where the body lacks enough sodium, which is different from affecting blood clotting.
What do the experts say?
Dr Ashok Kumar Boss, Senior Cardiologist at HDNA Aarogyam Hospital, Patna, shares his expertise, “There is no evidence that hot water acts as a natural blood thinner. Of course hot water causes vasodilation, i.e., dilation of blood vessels. This may help delay the clotting process causing more bleeding, just opposite to cold ice packs which causes vasoconstriction i.e., constriction of blood vessels, and less bleeding.”
When we asked Dr Debasish Mohapatra, Associate Consultant at BM Birla Heart Research Centre in Kolkata, if water can act as a blood thinner, he said, “Water cannot replace prescription blood thinners like warfarin. It does not have anticoagulant properties, but staying hydrated is beneficial. However, too much water can worsen symptoms in heart failure patients. Blood thinners are necessary to prevent serious conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and blockages.”
Does hot water help with high cholesterol levels?
Managing high cholesterol involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sometimes medications like statins. The temperature of the water you drink does not affect cholesterol levels. Although some claims suggest hot water can improve digestion and cholesterol levels, there is no scientific evidence to support this. Proper hydration is beneficial, but water temperature is irrelevant for cholesterol management.
Foods high in soluble fibre, healthy fats, and plant sterols can reduce cholesterol. Exercise also helps by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol. These methods are supported by extensive research, unlike the unproven claims about hot water.
Can drinking hot water help with blood clots?
Blood clots form when platelets and proteins in your blood work together to stop bleeding, and medications prevent or treat clots by inhibiting stages of this process. Drinking hot water does not affect blood clot formation or prevention. People at risk should follow their doctor’s advice. These usually include prescribed drugs, regular exercise, and avoiding prolonged sitting.
People should also keep in mind that excess water intake can, in fact, worsen heart failure symptoms. It cannot replace prescription blood thinners. Therefore, anticoagulant drugs are important to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and blockages.
What are the benefits of drinking hot water?
Hot water can not thin the blood or reduce cholesterol. But, it can provide some general health benefits, such as soothing a sore throat and helping in digestion. Hot water helps in:
- Soothes sore throat: Drinking warm water can help soothe a sore throat and ease congestion.
- Helps in digestion: Warm water can stimulate digestion and help with bowel movements.
- Relieves nasal congestion: The steam from hot water can help clear nasal congestion.
- Hydration: Drinking water, regardless of the temperature, keeps you hydrated, which is necessary for overall health.
- Detoxification: Warm water can help in detoxifying the body by promoting sweating and urination. Although this effect is marginal compared to other detox methods.
- Improves the functioning of CNS: A 2019 study suggests that hot water can affect brain function and improve mood. It also decreases stress levels according to a 2014 study.
Are there any risks associated with drinking hot water?
Yes, drinking hot water is generally safe, but it’s essential to ensure the water is not too hot to avoid burns or scalds. Extremely hot water can damage the tissues in your mouth and oesophagus, leading to burns. It is always best to consume water at a temperature that is comfortable to drink. Research suggests that the correct temperature is in the range of 54.4-71.1°C or 130-160°F.
Additionally, there is no need to drink excessively hot water for any supposed health benefits. Regular water consumption, whether warm, hot, or cold, will maintain hydration and support overall health.
How important is hydration for blood health?
Proper hydration is important for maintaining blood volume and viscosity. Dehydration can lead to thicker blood, increasing the risk of blood clots. Drinking enough water daily helps maintain an optimal balance of electrolytes and blood plasma, promoting smooth blood flow and reducing the strain on the heart.
According to guidelines from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men aged 19 and above are advised to consume approximately 3.7 litres (or about 15.5 cups) of water daily, while women in the same age group should aim for around 2.7 litres (equivalent to roughly 11.5 cups) per day. You can drink more as per your bodily requirements and the weather.
Conclusion
The claim that hot water acts as a natural blood thinner and helps with high cholesterol is not supported by scientific evidence. Even though drinking warm water can offer some general health benefits, it does not influence blood thickness or cholesterol levels. For managing blood clotting and cholesterol, it’s best to follow evidence-based medical advice and treatment plans.
Do not fall for exaggerated health claims from the internet, always consult a medical professional for the best advice. By debunking myths and focusing on factual, medically sound information, we can better understand how to manage our health effectively.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
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