Health | August 20, 2024 | I. Lin

4 Benefits of Drinking Hot Tea in Summer

Summer brings along an air of fun and excitement being outdoors, but also reminds you of the importance of staying hydrated. It may seem counterintuitive to reach for a cup of hot tea over an iced beverage during the hot weather season. However, drinking hot tea, especially in dry climates, can actually have a more impactful cooling effect on the body as well as other health benefits. In fact, the practice of drinking warm fluids during hot seasons is already common in many countries around the world, especially Asia. If you’re looking for a new way to find a moment of relaxation during the heatwaves, we recommend exploring the benefits of drinking hot tea in the summer. Discover more about the benefits below!

The information presented in this article is in no way intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical treatment. You should always consult with your physician or other health care professional before adopting any treatment for a health problem.

History and Research of Hot Tea in Summer

Drinking hot tea in the summer is a common practice with deep roots in many cultures, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. In dry climates, where evaporation exceeds precipitation, hot tea can actually help cool you down. Research published in Acta Physiologica shows that sipping hot tea triggers your body's natural cooling response [1]. Additionally, according to Peter McNaughton, a neuroscientist at the University of Cambridge, when a drink is warmer than the body, it initially makes you hotter. This causes heat receptors on your tongue to activate a receptor in your nerves called TRPV1, which signal the body to sweat. As this perspiration evaporates, it cools the skin and ultimately regulates your body temperature [2].

What are the Health Benefits of Hot Tea during Summer?

1. Hydration and A Cooling Down Effect

Summer often means spending long periods in the heat, which can be both exhausting and dehydrating, especially in dry climates. However, these conditions are ideal for sipping a cup of hot tea to cool down. Hot tea actively regulates body temperature by promoting sweating, which cools the body as it evaporates. Additionally, tea offers a healthier alternative to sugary sodas and fruit juices, providing a natural and refreshing way to stay hydrated.

2. Hot Tea is Easier to Process

Hot or warm beverages, like tea, align more closely with your body’s internal temperature. This means that when you drink hot tea, your body doesn’t need to expend as much energy to bring the liquid to body temperature, allowing for smoother digestion and quicker absorption of nutrients. In contrast, when you consume cold drinks, your body must work harder to warm the liquid, which can delay digestion and increase energy use. This process is known as thermoregulation, where the body expends energy to maintain its core temperature, and it can be especially taxing when you're already fatigued or dealing with external heat [3]. Consuming warm liquids can help relax digestive tract muscles, promoting smoother digestion and conserving energy that would otherwise be used to regulate temperature.

3. Aids in Digestion and Detox

In addition to cooling down, drinking hot tea overall aids in digestion, an added benefit during the summer months where barbecues and picnics with friends and families are popular. The warmth of the tea helps stimulate digestive enzymes, which allow your stomach to break down food more efficiently. This helps prevent bloating and alleviate discomfort, keeping you feeling light and refreshed even after a hearty meal.

Herbal teas such as sobacha buckwheat tea, a caffeine-free tea made from roasted kernels of buckwheat, may help lower blood sugar levels and promote good digestion, hearth health, and weight loss. On the other hand, catechins are a plant-based compound found in many green teas, such as gyokuro or hojicha, that can help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol while improving your body’s circulatory system.

4. Boosts Metabolism and Enhances Immunity

Tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help enhance your immune system. Summer often brings about changes in routine and exposure to different environments, so giving your immune system a boost can help fend off illnesses. Teas high in catechins, such as matcha and sencha, are excellent choices for keeping your immune system strong and have been shown to boost metabolism and enhance immunity. Matcha, in particular, contains high levels of EGCG, a catechin that boosts metabolism, provides natural energy, and supports cardiovascular health. Additionally, green teas can improve brain function, dental health, and lower the risks of arthritis and other diseases. The powerful antioxidants in tea help neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support your overall health.

Why Drink Hot Tea in Summer?

Drinking hot tea in the summer offers numerous benefits, including cooling the body through perspiration, aiding digestion, and providing essential hydration. Certain teas, like matcha and green tea, boost metabolism and enhance immunity with their rich antioxidant content. Other teas, such as sobacha, promote digestion and support heart health. Additionally, the simple act of sipping tea brings a moment of calm and mindfulness, allowing you to pause and rejuvenate even on the warmest days.