💧 Does drinking cold water really burn more calories?

The tip circulates regularly: drinking cold water is said to burn calories. The reasoning seems simple: the body must heat the water to body temperature, which requires energy. The principle is indeed based on a real physiological mechanism, but what is its measured impact?

The human body maintains its internal temperature around 37°C (98.6°F). When a person drinks water at 10°C (50°F), for example, the body must compensate for this temperature difference, and this adjustment mobilizes energy. The phenomenon is part of thermoregulation, a continuous process aimed at stabilizing thermal balance.


The energy calculation is relatively simple. Heating 500 mL (about 16.9 fl oz) of water from 10°C (50°F) to 37°C (98.6°F) requires 13.5 kcal. This estimate is based on classical thermodynamic principles. Compared to average daily needs, which range from 1,800 to 2,500 kcal depending on age and activity, this expenditure remains modest.

It is also important to distinguish the expenditure related to warming the water from that associated with overall metabolism. The body constantly adjusts its heat production based on the environment, diet, and physical activity. The caloric impact of cold water remains marginal within this whole.

Drinking water, cold or room temperature, however, offers other benefits. Adequate hydration contributes to proper metabolic function and appetite regulation. Replacing sugary drinks with water primarily helps reduce overall energy intake.

So, drinking cold water does lead to a slight energy expenditure related to thermoregulation. However, this expenditure remains low and does not constitute a significant lever for weight loss. The primary interest of water remains its essential role in hydration and physiological balance.