A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition explores the connection between the temperature of beverages and mood. Researchers found that the choice between hot and cold drinks may be linked to anxiety, sleep, and digestive health, with cultural and individual variations in responses. Wellness experts also shared insights on how hot beverages can calm and aid in overall well-being.
A recent study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition and highlighted in a San Diego State University news release on September 22, suggests a fascinating link between the temperature of our beverages and our mood. The study involved over 400 American adults, comprising both Asian and White participants, and revealed intriguing correlations between hot or cold drink consumption and various health outcomes.
Researchers found that food and beverage temperature, a concept long recognized in traditional Asian medicine, exhibits measurable connections to anxiety, insomnia, and gut discomfort. The findings underscore the potential impact of seemingly mundane choices, such as whether we opt for a hot chocolate or an iced coffee, on our overall well-being. This study represents an initial exploration into an area with potentially significant implications for public health and individual lifestyle choices. The researchers carefully noted that these findings demonstrate correlations rather than proving causation, as the research relied on self-reported data from participants. \The study uncovered contrasting effects based on ethnicity and the season. During warmer months, Asian participants reported increased anxiety, more sleep disturbances, and greater feelings of abdominal fullness when consuming more cold beverages. In contrast, White participants who drank hot beverages during the winter reported less depression, improved sleep quality, and fewer gastrointestinal problems. The researchers attribute these differences primarily to cultural consumption habits and individual temperature sensitivity, with stronger effects observed among participants who reported having 'cold hands.' They emphasized the importance of considering these findings in the context of individual differences and cultural practices, highlighting the complexity of the relationship between temperature and health. The study also stresses the significance of addressing rising rates of anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues by examining such routine aspects of daily life, such as our beverage choices. Tianying Wu, an associate professor of epidemiology at SDSU, emphasized that this research provides valuable insights into how hot and cold consumption may relate to various health outcomes, and the broad relevance of these findings to everyday health choices. \Experts also weighed in on the study's implications, emphasizing the potential physiological and psychological benefits of warm beverages. Jessica Mack, a New York-based wellness expert and occupational therapist, highlighted the positive impact of consuming warm foods and beverages on the body's stress response. She explained that warmth may activate the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for relaxation, and potentially influence the release of mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin. Warm beverages can also stimulate the vagus nerve, which helps lower heart rate and promote a sense of calm. The increase in body temperature can enhance circulation and trigger the release of feel-good neurotransmitters. Furthermore, Mack noted that, psychologically, warmth is associated with safety and comfort, suggesting that sipping tea or eating warm soup could help shift the body and mind out of fight-or-flight mode, illustrating the calming effect of small sensory cues. Another study, conducted at the same time, found that coffee may boost mood. The study followed 200 young adults over four weeks. The study noted happiness and enthusiasm in the participants, even if they were not addicted to caffeine
Beverage Temperature Mood Anxiety Sleep Digestive Health
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Your drink order can reveal how confident you are in dating: surveyToday's Video Headlines 10/22/25
Read more »
Outdoor Voices founder Ty Haney accused of defrauding investors in $3M energy drink dealMarco joined The Denver Post in August of 2025 as a Digital Strategist, contributing to the newsroom’s digital initiatives, including SEO, social media strategy, and audience growth. Previously, he covered prep sports at the Post from 2019-20.
Read more »
Study Reveals Grandparent With Biggest Impact On KidsA new study found that this grandparent's positive influence on a child who had experienced trauma can extend for years.
Read more »
Dakota Johnson ‘Loves to Drink a Martini’ While Trimming Her Own BangsHere’s how Dakota Johnson cuts her bangs and gets her natural hair so long and glossy—plus, why she’ll never ditch her signature hairstyle.
Read more »
Civet coffee: The real chemistry behind this bizarre luxury drinkScientists are finding out how coffee beans are transformed when they pass through the guts of Asian palm civets in the hope of replicating the process without using animals
Read more »
Matcha Cocktails: The Trendy Drink That Blends Health Buzz with BoozeAs matcha's popularity skyrockets, bartenders are incorporating it into cocktails, creating a trend that appeals to health-conscious drinkers. However, experts question the health benefits when matcha is mixed with alcohol.
Read more »