Remember when you where younger and either your Mum or Gran used to say that a cup of tea would cool you down faster than an ice cold drink? Now, at the time, the mere thought of a hot drink when I was overheating was unbearable. However, as I have gotten older I have realised there is method to the madness.
To be fair this isn’t a new revelation, it dates backs over 100’s of years and hot drinks have been preferred by those in warmer climates. For example, Tea or Chai is one of the most popular drinks in India and they can experience over 50° Celsius. Prefer to read a little more on the science side of things, check out more here.
How is that Possible?
According to Professor Peter McNaughton (a neuroscientist) in Cambridge, hot drinks will raise your core body temperature. This makes you sweat more.
You see, the nerves in your mouth and upper digestive tracts react to the hear of the tea and this sends a message to your brain – telling it to sweat more. While we don’t want to think about over sweating and feeling clammy. Sweating actually helps to cool you down.
There May Be a Catch:
In Ireland, when we are blessed with the warm summer sun, we also get its pesky friend, humidity. Things can get uncomfortable. How it works is that a cup of tea gives your body quick rise in temperature and your body starts to cool itself down immediately.
However, if you are already sweating to the point where you feel a little dewy or clammy – your body is already sweating and the cup of teas magic will not help or speed up the cooling process. When it gets to this, it’s time to dunk yourself in a pool, open the fridge for an iced drink or get yourself a cool treat.
Important Notes:
So, when you are a little uncomfortable and not sweating yet, a cup of tea is the answer. But, if you are already sweating – get yourself an iced cold drink.
As it happens, we are in the business of hot drinks and tea. We have perfected the art of pain free and stylish pouring with your kettle. It’s our nifty daily living aid, the Uccello Kettle. Check it out for yourself here today.
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