We’ve all heard it since childhood: “Drink eight glasses of water every day.” Some say “drink warm water on an empty stomach to cleanse your body” or “cold water is harmful.”
But have you ever wondered — if these claims were really true, wouldn’t everyone in the world follow the same rule?
The truth is, most of what we hear about water is based on myths, not science. Your body doesn’t need a specific number of glasses or a special temperature — it just needs one thing: hydration, meaning it shouldn’t run low on water.
According to science, the ideal water temperature is between 10°C and 22°C — not too cold, not too hot — just right for the body to absorb easily. Since normal room temperature is around 25°C, slightly cool water is usually best.
If you’re exercising, sweating, or working in the heat, cold water helps your body cool down, normalizes your heartbeat, and restores energy quickly. In such cases, drinking warm water can actually make you feel more tired.
On the other hand, warm water is helpful for people with weak digestion or those suffering from sore throat, flu, or a cold. It’s absorbed faster and improves digestion.
As for when to drink water — science says something different from what we’ve been told. Drinking cold water before meals can slow down digestion, while normal or warm water helps it. In the morning, one or two glasses of water are enough to rehydrate your body after sleep — not three or four. The “eight glasses a day” rule has no scientific basis. Everyone should drink according to their body’s needs.
And for those who believe that cold water causes joint pain — the real issue isn’t cold water, it’s dehydration. When the body lacks water, the natural fluid inside the joints dries up, leading to stiffness and pain.
Whether you drink water before, during, or after meals — it depends on your body. Some people feel better drinking before meals, others after. None of these habits are harmful. The key is to listen to your body.
Remember, there are no strict rules about water. Science only says one thing: keep your body hydrated. Drink cold, warm, or normal water — just make sure you drink enough.
Because life is all about balance — and water is the balance that keeps every breath, heartbeat, and cell alive.