Why does cold water taste better? It's not your imagination—it's science!
Why Does Cold Water Taste Better?
Updated on Dec. 15, 2023
Is there anything more refreshing than a full glass of ice water on a sweltering summer day? Hot or even room-temperature water doesn’t come close. So why does cold water taste better than other temps? Refresh your glass and read on.
Why Does Cold Water Taste Better?
Cold water tastes better because our taste buds perceive it differently. You’re not imagining it—cold water really does taste different than warm water.
Our brains perceive cold drinks as less flavorful than hot ones. That’s because the cold temperature suppresses our tastebuds, and we simply do not taste as much. If your water has any impurities, you likely won’t taste them as much when the water is cold. This makes the water seem like it tastes better when it’s cold!
This change in perception is why many foods taste better hot, or taste better with a straw. When food is warm or hot, our brains perceive more flavor from it. When it’s cold, we can’t taste as much.
And the scientific research backs this up. A 2015 study found that drinking cooler liquids reduces our ability to taste sweetness. That’s why warm water sometimes tastes sweet. Our brains can’t pick up on the flavor when it’s cold.
A 2021 study found that temperature affects how much we enjoy what we eat and drink. In general, people find cold water more refreshing than other temperatures.
And there may be health benefits to drinking cold water, too. A 2012 study found that drinking cold water during exercise can prevent the body from overheating. It can also make workout sessions more effective by keeping the core body temperature lower.
Is Cold Water Good for You?
You may have read that drinking warm or hot water is better for the body than cold water. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that hot water is more beneficial for our health. There is little evidence in Western medicine to support drinking hot or warm water over cold.
A small study from 1978 found that drinking cold water might thicken nasal mucous and make a cold worse. It found that drinking hot water or chicken soup thins mucous and provides relief when you’re sick. This could be why you crave chicken noodle soup when you’re under the weather.
Another small study from 2001 found that drinking cold water could trigger migraines in people who are susceptible to them. If you notice that you’re experiencing any health problems after drinking cold water, talk with your healthcare provider.
Drink Up
Bottom line? Water is essential for a healthy body, so enjoy it at whatever temperature you prefer. And here’s what will happen when you drink water all day!
Flavored Waters to Serve Over Ice
Strawberry-Lavender Infused WaterA little bit of lavender goes a long way, so be sure not to overdo it! This pretty combo screams summer, but you can also dry out the lavender and enjoy this anytime.
Wondering what is a good way to flavor water? Learn how to make flavored water with these easy infused water recipes.
Nectarine, Basil and Clementine Infused WaterNectarine and basil may sound a little strange, but trust us, this combination is a real winner. A few slices of clementine seal the deal. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Raspberry and Lemon Infused WaterIf you're craving raspberry lemonade but are trying to cut back on your sugar intake, this infused water is the perfect substitute.—James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Find more of our favorite lemon-infused water recipes.
Peachy Navel Infused Water
Get the sweet and fruity taste of a Fuzzy Navel without the schnapps. In a carafe combine water with fresh peach, orange and lime slices. After infusing overnight, serve chilled.
Rosemary and Ginger Infused WaterAromatic and slightly spicy, this infused water is great for winter holidays and celebrations. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Check out the benefits of ginger for beauty and health.
Grapefruit and Coriander Infused WaterPacked with bright flavor, this infused water gives you another reason to pull out your coriander seeds. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Cinnamon Apple Infused Water
For a fall-inspired infused water, add half a sliced Granny Smith apple, cinnamon stick and four allspice berries to a pitcher of water. Let sit overnight and then serve chilled.
Pomegranate and Pear Infused WaterIf you can't find a pomegranate at your local grocery store, you can substitute it with a splash of pomegranate juice just before serving. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
By the way, here's how to deseed a pomegranate.
Blackberry and Sage Infused WaterMuddling the sage leaves a bit before adding the blueberries and water will intensify their flavor in the final product. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Spring Lemon Verbena Infused Water
Combine 6 fresh lemon verbena sprigs, half a cup of fresh blueberries and water in a large pitcher for a light and herb-y infused water.
Tangerine and Thyme Infused WaterWho doesn't love the bright and juicy flavor of tangerine? The addition of thyme really rounds out this infused water. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Here are more tasty ways to use fresh thyme.
Apple and Ginger Infused WaterTart and spicy, this infused water is like fall in a glass. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Sweet and Spicy Pear Infused Water
In a large pitcher, add a sliced pear, half a sliced peach, a tablespoon of fresh ginger and cover with water. After letting the ingredients steep overnight, serve chilled.
Turmeric WaterKeep a stash of this zingy chilled turmeric water in the fridge. Infused with tart lemon and peppery ginger, this refreshing beverage is great anytime.
Questioning if you can use frozen fruit to infuse water? You definitely can, along with these other recipes that are made with frozen fruit.
Triple Berry Blast
In a large pitcher, cover half a cup of cut strawberries, raspberries and blackberries with cold water. Let sit in a fridge for 12-24 hours then enjoy.
Grape and Mint Infused WaterIt'll truly feel like spring when you sip this juicy and minty infused water. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Get our guide to different grape varieties.
Pineapple and Mint Infused WaterThis pineapple and mint water is like a tropical cocktail but without the sticky-sweet taste. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Spiced Blood Orange Infused Water
Perfect on a fall or winter day, this infused water includes a sliced blood orange, 5 whole cloves and 2 whole star anise. After the ingredients have infused the water overnight, serve chilled. Next, check out our most beautiful blood orange recipes.
Cucumber WaterThis cucumber water recipe is the key to leveling up your hydration game. The spa-like vibes will have you sipping all day long.
Cantaloupe, Mint and Lemon Infused WaterNothing beats fresh melon. You can also play around with this recipe and swap cantaloupe for honeydew or watermelon, or go ahead and use all three.
Psst! Here's how to pick a perfectly ripe melon.
Pear and Fennel Infused Water
To a large carafe, add half a sliced pear, 3 fresh rosemary sprigs, half a sliced fennel bulb and water. Serve with ice after steeping for 12-24 hours. Learn how to make clear ice cubes.
Cranberry, Orange and Cardamom Infused WaterThis gorgeous infused water would make a great addition to your holiday dinner table. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Mint Julep Infused Water
If you love this Kentucky Derby-staple, try it water form. Add a few slices of lemon, mint leaves, a tablespoon of ginger slices and water in a large pitcher. Let the ingredients sit overnight, then serve over ice. Craving something a little harder? Here's how to make a mint julep.
