While water is always refreshing, you might find it tastes best with ice. Although temperature can be a personal preference, it’s also influenced by biological factors. If you need to stop by the ice dispenser before filling up a glass of water, you might wonder why and what else you can do to make this beverage more enjoyable.

Why Ice Water Tastes Better 

Enhances the Feeling of Rehydration

Emerging research shows that certain tissues and structures in the brain detect dehydration before you begin to feel thirsty. This triggers you to reach for a glass of water—and the physical act of drinking then tells your brain that you’re rehydrating. This sensation is amplified when the drink’s temperature is colder or hotter than the mouth and throat, as the fluid stimulates the nerves that respond to temperature and touch.

Tells Your Brain the Water Is Clean & Safe

In the natural world, clean, fresh water from rivers and streams is often very cold, while stagnant, germ-prone water tends to be warmer. Thus, human preference for ice-cold water may be related to an evolutionary urge to prevent diseases caused by germs, bacteria, and viruses.

Suppresses Unpleasant Tastes

Extreme temperatures, whether cold or hot, influence taste bud sensitivity and the flavors you can taste. Hot temperatures agitate molecules and make them more perceptible through taste and smell, while cold temperatures stabilize the molecules. That means a cold glass of water will mask unpleasant tastes much better than one at room temperature. 

Other Ways to Make Water Taste Better 

A well-stocked ice dispenser makes it easy to enjoy a cold, refreshing glass of water, but plain water can get boring. Adding fresh fruit, such as sliced citrus, raspberries, and watermelon cubes, provides a hint of natural sweetness. You’ll create a different flavor sensation every time you shop for fruit.

You can also use cold water as a mixer for tart fruit juices, such as unsweetened apple, grape, or cranberry juice. Add as much or as little water as you want for customized levels of flavor.

Sugar-free drink mixes also boost flavor quickly. Look for varieties with vitamins and electrolytes to replenish after a workout.

Whether your business needs a new ice dispenser or is due for a refill, Hawaiian Ice Company in Honolulu will bring the products you need. For more than 20 years, this locally owned and operated ice supplier has delivered high-quality packaged ice and refrigerated storage equipment. Learn more about their offerings online, and call (808) 538-6918 to ask about their inventory.