Why Chinese People Drink Hot Water: A Gentle Introduction

One-line Summary

Many Chinese people prefer drinking hot or warm water throughout the day, a habit rooted in traditional wellness beliefs and practical comfort.

What it Looks Like

If you visit a Chinese home or restaurant, you might notice something different: people sipping hot water with their meals, or carrying thermoses filled with warm water throughout the day. Even in summer, you might see someone ordering hot water at a restaurant instead of ice water.

This isn't about tea or medicine — it's simply hot or warm water, often at a temperature that feels comfortable to drink immediately. In offices, you'll find water dispensers with both hot and warm options. In homes, the electric kettle is one of the most-used appliances.

The practice varies by individual — some people drink only hot water, while others are comfortable with room temperature water. The key is avoiding very cold drinks, especially with meals.

Why People Do It

The preference for hot water comes from several cultural and historical factors:

Traditional Wellness Philosophy

In traditional Chinese wellness thinking, the body is seen as needing balance between "warm" and "cool" energies. Cold drinks are thought to disrupt this balance, particularly the digestive system. While this isn't medical advice, it's a cultural belief passed down through generations.

Digestive Comfort

Many Chinese people report feeling physically uncomfortable after drinking very cold water, especially with meals. The stomach is accustomed to warm food and drinks, making cold water feel shocking to the system.

Historical Water Safety

Before modern water treatment, boiling water was essential for safety. This practical habit became deeply embedded in daily life, persisting even after clean tap water became available.

Comfort and Soothing Effect

There's something comforting about holding a warm cup, especially in cold weather. Many find hot water soothing for the throat and stomach.

How to Try It

If you're curious about this habit, here's a gentle way to experiment:

Step 1: Start with Warm, Not Hot

Fill a cup with water that's warm enough to be comfortable — not scalding. Think "baby bottle temperature" — warm enough that you could drink it immediately without burning your mouth.

Step 2: Try It with Meals

Have a cup of warm water with your next meal instead of a cold drink. Notice how it feels in your stomach. Some people find it makes the meal feel more settled.

Step 3: Experiment for a Few Days

Try drinking warm water for 3-7 days, especially in the morning and with meals. Pay attention to how your body feels. You might find it surprisingly comforting.

Do & Don't

Do:

1. Start with warm water if you're not used to hot drinks
2. Listen to your body — if it feels good, continue; if not, that's okay
3. Carry warm water in a thermos for convenience
4. Notice if it helps with digestion or comfort

Don't:

1. Force yourself if your body rejects it
2. Use water that's so hot it could burn you
3. Assume this works for everyone — individual responses vary
4. Pressure others to adopt this habit

Common Misunderstandings

"Chinese people never drink cold water"

This isn't true. Many Chinese people, especially younger generations in urban areas, enjoy cold drinks, bubble tea, iced coffee, and cold beer. The hot water habit is common but not universal.

"It's medically proven to be healthier"

There's limited scientific evidence that hot water is inherently healthier than cold water. The health claims are largely based on traditional beliefs rather than clinical studies. If you prefer cold water and feel fine, there's no need to change.

"Everyone does it for the same reasons"

People have different reasons. Some follow family tradition, others genuinely prefer the taste and sensation, and some simply grew up with it. It's not always a conscious health choice.

Safety & Disclaimer

This article describes a cultural practice, not medical advice. Individual responses to water temperature vary significantly. If you have digestive conditions, thyroid issues, or other health concerns, consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or fluid intake.

Some people may find warm water soothing for certain conditions, while others may find it uncomfortable. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Listen to your body and make choices that work for you personally.