We all know that drinking enough water is a must for good health. But if you really want to take the benefits of water a notch further, hot water is the way to go.

When hot water is had on an empty stomach, it cleanses, refreshes and improves the performance of all body functions. And in some instances, it can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, including:

1. Achalasia

Achalasia occurs when nerves in the oesophagus become damaged. As a result, the oesophagus becomes paralyzed and dilated over time and eventually loses the ability to squeeze food down into the stomach.

People suffering from this condition can feel like there’s food stuck in their oesophagus or have trouble completely swallowing. But hot water is believed to help relieve some symptoms and can reduce lower oesophageal sphincter resting pressure that makes it difficult to swallow cold food or beverages.

2. Nasal and Throat Congestion

Hot water is a great way to stay hydrated and relieve the symptoms of a cough and cold. It not just provides relief to the throat, it also keeps the respiratory tract clear, helps unclog the sinuses and nasal passage, allowing you to eliminate phlegm and mucus quicker.

3. Constipation And Indigestion

Drinking hot water is better to stimulate bowel movement than cold or room temperature water. When you drink hot water, it is absorbed by the small intestine and reduces the risk of constipation. It also helps release trapped wind, and get rid of acidity and other gastric problems.

4. Menstrual Cramps

Just the way a hot water bag on your abdomen relieves your menstrual cramps, drinking hot water at regular intervals can also help you deal with those painful cramps more quickly and effectively. The heat from hot water that you drink helps increase blood flow, relax cramped muscles and relieves the pain.

5. Poor Blood Circulation

Heat warms your body and helps blood flow throughout your body. Better circulation may lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease. Having a cup or two of hot water is an easy way to get your blood flowing.

6. Stress

Drinking hot water may soothe your central nervous system and may make you feel less stressed for the day. It’s similar to the relaxing feeling you get when you take a bath.

7. Excessive Weight Gain

Drinking hot water boosts your metabolism and helps you lose weight in a healthy manner. Basically, hot water helps break down the fat molecules in your diet faster, which leads to weight loss.