Very Hot Drinks May Raise Cancer Risk, Oxford Study Warns

Key Takeaways

• Drinks served at or above 65°C pose a potential risk of esophageal cancer.
• Consuming six or more hot beverages daily significantly increases health risks.
• Adding milk slightly cools beverages, but tea and coffee remain dangerously hot.
• Freshly boiled water cools from 100°C to around 90–95°C when poured into cups.
• Experts recommend letting hot beverages cool for a few minutes before drinking.

Oxford Study Links Hot Beverages to Esophageal Damage

A comprehensive study by Oxford University, published in the International Journal of Cancer, reveals that consuming very hot drinks increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Analyzing data from nearly one million middle-aged adults, researchers defined beverages consumed at 65°C (149°F) or higher as potentially hazardous to health.

Key Findings on Hot Beverage Consumption

Drinking six or more hot beverages daily significantly elevates health risks. While many people add milk hoping to cool their drink, researchers warn that milky tea or coffee often remains far too hot for safe consumption.

Critical Temperature Insights

• Fresh Boiling Water: Boiling water reaches 100°C, cooling to roughly 90–95°C immediately after pouring.
• Safe Drinking Range: Coffee cup manufacturers recommend serving beverages between 49°C and 60°C.
• High-Risk Threshold: Drinks served at or above 65°C can cause repeated thermal injury to the food pipe.

Expert Recommendations for Safe Drinking

Health organizations, including Cancer Research UK, advise waiting several minutes before consuming hot drinks until they reach a comfortable temperature. Allowing your cup to cool down prevents thermal damage to the lining of the esophagus.

Lead researcher Dr. Keren Papier noted that further studies will help pinpoint exact danger thresholds, expanding on previous research into high-temperature herbal teas like mate. (Source: BBC News)

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature is considered too hot for drinks?

Beverages at or above 65°C (149°F) are considered very hot and may increase esophageal cancer risk.

Does adding milk make hot tea or coffee safe?

Milk lowers beverage temperature slightly, but tea or coffee can still remain above safe threshold levels.

What is the safest temperature to drink hot beverages?

The ideal and safer temperature for consuming hot coffee or tea is generally between 49°C and 60°C.

Originally reported by BBC News. Enhanced and optimized for search by TechVeb.