r/explainlikeimfive • u/Frambitzzz • 4h ago
Biology ELI5: Why does our brain crave cold water over room temperature water when we feel extremely thirsty?
Even though water hydrates you the exact same way regardless of temperature, drinking ice-cold water feels instantly more satisfying when you are overheated or parched. What physical or sensory process causes that immediate sense of relief before the water even enters the stomach?