The habit of drinking hot water in the morning is going viral on social media: experts explain how this ancient practice can influence digestion and well-being.

Written by Andriely Medeiros de Araújo

Published on 13/04/2026 at 10:24

Updated on 02/05/2026 at 16:56

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The habit of drinking hot water in the morning, recently popularized on social media, has caught the attention of young people in different countries, driven by viral videos on TikTok and Instagram. The practice, adopted by influencers under hashtags like “Chinamaxxing,” consists of replacing coffee or cold drinks with warm water right after waking up.

Although it has origins in ancient traditions, such as Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, the behavior raises questions: after all, what are its real benefits, how does it work, and why has it come back into fashion now?

According to experts, the habit is not new. It has been part of traditional health systems for thousands of years, advocating for the balance of the body’s vital energy, known as “Qi.” The central idea is simple: to avoid thermal shocks to the body first thing in the morning, promoting a gentler awakening.

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What does science say about drinking hot water in the morning?

Despite its popularity, doctors warn that caution is needed. Modern science recognizes some benefits but also debunks exaggerated promises.

Check out the main points analyzed:

Digestion: warm water may slightly stimulate the digestive system and help prevent constipation.
Relief from spasms: there is evidence that hot liquids help relax the esophagus.
Hydration: the main benefit remains keeping the body hydrated, regardless of temperature.

On the other hand, experts are clear in stating that there is no evidence that drinking hot water in the morning speeds up metabolism or promotes significant weight loss.

Behavioral change and the search for alternatives

The growth of this habit is also linked to a decline in trust in traditional health systems in some countries. Recent data indicates a significant reduction in trust in hospitals, which drives the search for simpler and more personalized solutions.

Understand why drinking hot water in the morning has become a trend on social media, what the proven benefits are, and the myths according to experts. Image generated by AI.

Furthermore, the movement is not limited to drinking water. It includes complementary practices that reinforce well-being:

Eating warm and less processed meals
Light exercises, such as Tai Chi and Qigong
Moments of pause and slowing down in the routine

Thus, drinking hot water in the morning ends up becoming part of a broader lifestyle.

Care when adopting the habit in daily life

Although it is a simple practice, some precautions are essential. The water temperature should be moderate, between 40°C and 60°C, to avoid burns.

Additionally, people with specific health conditions should seek medical advice before making changes to their routine. This is especially important for those considering replacing conventional treatments with alternative practices.

Finally, experts emphasize: drinking hot water in the morning can be a good habit, but it should not be seen as a miracle solution.

With information from Olhar Digital

The habit of drinking hot water in the morning is going viral on social media: experts explain how this ancient practice can influence digestion and well-being.

What does science say about drinking hot water in the morning?

Behavioral change and the search for alternatives

Care when adopting the habit in daily life

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The habit of drinking hot water in the morning is going viral on social media: experts explain how this ancient practice can influence digestion and well-being.

Understand why drinking hot water in the morning has become a trend on social media, what the proven benefits are, and the myths according to experts.

Drinking hot water in the morning: an ancient tradition gains strength on social media

What does science say about drinking hot water in the morning?

Behavioral change and the search for alternatives

Care when adopting the habit in daily life

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China is building an artificial island in the middle of the sea, covering 20 km², to construct the largest offshore airport in the world, the Dalian Jinzhouwan. This $4.3 billion project is anchored on more than 3,000 pillars embedded in the rock beneath the ocean and is scheduled to open in 2035.

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