Drink water THIS way to burn calories and lose weight: It actually works!

Sometimes, it’s the smallest everyday things that make a big difference, like how a single glass of cold water can help burn calories. It may sound like one of those too-good-to-be-true fitness hacks, but science does point to this little trick as something worth noticing.


While this habit alone won’t lead to dramatic weight loss, it can play a meaningful role when added to an overall healthy routine. What makes it even more interesting is how the body reacts to cold water, forcing it to work harder—and burn more calories—just to maintain its natural temperature.


Here’s all we need to know about how drinking cold water can help burn calories and lose weight.


Whenever cold water enters the body, it slightly drops the core temperature. Now, the body isn’t too happy about that. It wants everything back to normal—fast. So it goes to work, burning energy to warm that water up.



This process is known as thermogenesis—a natural heat-generating mechanism. According to a study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2003), drinking 500 ml of cold water increased metabolic rate by up to 30% for over an hour.


That may sound small, but when repeated consistently, those extra calories burned add up.


Does it really burn 8 calories per glass?

The figure 8 isn’t plucked out of thin air—it comes from estimating how many calories are used to warm 250 ml (one glass) of water from about 5°C (cold from the fridge) to 37°C (body temperature).


Basic thermodynamics helps explain it:

Around 1 calorie is needed to heat 1 gram of water by 1°C.

One glass = roughly 250 grams of water.

Raising the temperature by 32°C (from 5°C to 37°C) = 8,000 calories (in physics terms), or 8 food calories (kcal).

So yes, drinking one glass of cold water burns around 8 kcal—and while that’s small, it’s scientifically grounded.




Small habit, big monthly impact?
Burning 8 calories per glass may not seem life-changing. But over a month, let’s say with 5 glasses a day, it adds up to:

8 x 5 = 40 calories/day

40 x 30 = 1,200 calories/month

That’s the equivalent of a light cardio session, just from hydrating. It won’t replace movement or clean eating, but it does mean the body is doing a little more than usual—without even being asked.


The beauty of this habit? It’s effortless and already part of most people’s routine. A tweak in temperature is all it takes.


Chilled water isn’t just about burning calories. It can offer a quick mental refresh. That sudden cool sensation triggers alertness, even mild stimulation of the nervous system. After waking up or during a work slump, a cold glass can bring clarity.


Some people find it also curbs mild hunger pangs temporarily, which can be helpful for anyone trying to avoid unnecessary snacking.

Video

What the myths get wrong

Many online trends turn this simple fact into a miracle trick, promising rapid fat loss by drinking only cold water. But the truth is more grounded:

• Cold water supports metabolism but doesn’t dramatically boost it.
• It’s not a fat-burning shortcut, but a mild and helpful addition to a broader routine.
• No single habit replaces balanced meals, movement, or sleep. But when combined, these micro-actions support lasting change.