Yes, says Dr William Li, a Harvard-trained physician and author. On The Mel Robbins Podcast, Dr Li explained that drinking cold water may help burn body fat by activating brown fat, which increases metabolism as the body warms the water to its core temperature.
Top 4 Metabolism Boosting Hacks by Dr Li:
- Stick to Clean Beverages: Only drink water, tea, or black coffee—no dairy milk, as it blocks the healthy compounds in your drinks. Nut milk is a better choice.
- Cold Water Advantage: Cold water can slightly boost metabolism by triggering brown fat, which helps burn extra calories.
- Ditch Ultra-Processed Foods: Replace them with whole, plant-based options to improve digestion and metabolism.
- Eat Smart and Move More: Eat until satisfied (not full), eat slowly, and pair good food choices with regular physical activity.
Cold Water Concerns?
While cold water may help with fat burning, it may not be suitable for everyone. According to a 2001 PubMed study, it may trigger migraines in some people. However, Healthline reports there’s no evidence that cold water is harmful to general health.
Final Note:
These tips are based on expert insights but always consult a healthcare professional before making major changes to your diet or lifestyle.