MUST READ: Hot Drinks And Cancer Risk – What You Need To Know About Protecting Your Health

Hot Drinks and Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know About Protecting Your Health
Hot Drinks And Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know About Protecting Your Health
The Hidden Health Risk of Hot Drinks And Food: How Extremely Hot Beverages And Food Can Damage Your Esophagus, Increase Cancer Risk, and Simple Tips to Protect Yourself

Many of us start our day with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, seeking warmth and comfort. However, those hot beverages may be doing more harm than good to our bodies. Research has raised concerns about the health risks associated with drinking beverages that are too hot, specifically the potential link to esophageal cancer.

The Hidden Danger of Hot Drinks

A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition revealed a surprising connection between consuming extremely hot beverages and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. The problem doesn’t lie in the drink itself but in its temperature—sipping on a scalding cup of tea or coffee can have long-term consequences on your health.

Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital in Noida, explained that repeatedly exposing the sensitive lining of your esophagus to extreme heat could lead to chronic inflammation. Over time, this inflammation may cause cellular changes, which can potentially increase the likelihood of cancer in that area.

Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital in Noida
Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital in Noida

Why Temperature Matters, Not the Beverage

It’s important to note that it’s not the drink you’re consuming that is dangerous—it’s how hot it is. Dr. Srivastav emphasized that beverages served at or above 65°C (149°F) should be avoided, as they can cause harm to the delicate tissue lining your esophagus.

So, your beloved herbal tea or strong coffee is not to blame; it’s the high temperature that poses the real danger. Sipping drinks at such high temperatures repeatedly can lead to tissue damage over time, which could increase the risk of cancerous changes.

How Hot Drinks Impact Your Health

When you consume a hot drink, the lining of your esophagus absorbs the heat. This is particularly concerning for people who regularly drink beverages at extreme temperatures, as it can cause repeated irritation. Over time, this may lead to the development of conditions like esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) and other long-term issues, including an elevated cancer risk.

Dr. Srivastav explained,

“These changes in the esophageal tissue, when chronic, could predispose an individual to develop cancer in the future.”

So, while enjoying a hot cup of tea or coffee isn’t inherently harmful, consistently consuming them too hot may contribute to serious health problems down the road.

How to Protect Your Esophagus and Still Enjoy Your Drinks

You don’t have to give up your hot beverages altogether, but you should be mindful of their temperature. Here are some expert-approved tips to help you enjoy your drinks safely:

  • Wait for It to Cool: Let your tea, coffee, or soup cool down for a few minutes before taking a sip. Giving it time to reach a more moderate temperature will reduce the risk of damaging your esophagus.
  • Test Before Sipping: Always test your drink with a small sip to check that it’s warm, not scalding. This simple step can prevent accidental burns and tissue damage.
  • Use Insulated Mugs: Consider using insulated mugs or thermos bottles that help maintain a moderate temperature, preventing your drink from overheating.
  • Cool It Down Quickly: If you’re in a hurry, add a little milk or cold water to your beverage to lower its temperature quickly and make it safer to drink.

Protect Your Health Without Giving Up Your Favorite Drink

While it’s essential to be mindful of how hot your drinks are, there’s no need to give up your morning drink. By simply letting your drink cool for a few minutes or adjusting the temperature, you can continue to enjoy your favorite beverages without the added risk.

Remember, a little patience can go a long way. Allowing your tea or coffee to settle to a safer temperature will not only keep your esophagus healthy but may also make your drink taste better. After all, a good health is sweeter.


Copyright 2024 REPORT AFRIQUE (RA). Permission to use portions of this article is granted provided appropriate credits are given to www.reportafrique.com and other relevant sources.This Article is Fact-Checked. See Policy.
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