Ice Water Hack: Does This Weight Loss Trend Work?

What Is the Ice Water Hack?

The ice water hack is a popular wellness trick that involves drinking very cold water, often with ingredients like lemon, salt, or vinegar. It helps boost metabolism by making your body burn calories to warm the cold water.

Some versions include baking soda or apple cider vinegar for added effects. Others keep it simple with just lemon water and ice. Many people do it first thing in the morning as a quick and refreshing way to start the day.

It’s not a strict diet or workout. It’s a small daily ritual that feels easy to stick with.

Why the Ice Water Hack Is Going Viral

The trend exploded on TikTok and YouTube with the name “7-second ice water hack.” People show themselves making a chilled drink and claiming it helps shrink belly fat or control cravings. It caught on because it feels doable. No calorie counting. No intense gym routine. Just cold water and a few kitchen staples.

For many people, it offers hope. They’re tired of trying complicated diets and not seeing results. This hack gives them something simple to try right away.

That emotional appeal is a big reason this trend keeps spreading.

Does the Ice Water Hack Help With Weight Loss?

When you drink cold water, your body has to heat it up to match your internal temperature. This process is called water-induced thermogenesis. It burns a small number of calories, not a lot, but enough that it can add up with daily use.

Cold water can also help you feel full. That means fewer snacks and better portion control. Plus, staying well hydrated helps your body work better overall, especially when trying to lose weight.

The hack won’t cause major weight loss on its own. But it can give you a little extra edge when used consistently with healthy habits.

Ice Water Hack Ingredients and What They Do

Each version of the hack uses simple ingredients you may already have:

• Lemon juice: Adds vitamin C and flavor. May support digestion and reduce bloating.
• Apple cider vinegar: Believed to help with satiety and blood sugar levels. Use with caution if you have acid reflux.
• Ginger: Often used to reduce inflammation and support digestion. It may help with appetite control.
• Baking soda: Used for pH balance. Should only be used occasionally. Not safe for everyone.
• Himalayan or sea salt: Adds trace minerals. It can help your body absorb water more effectively.
• Ice water: The cold temperature is key. It triggers your body’s calorie-burning response.

Note: These ingredients are safe for most people in small amounts. But if you have any health conditions, check with your doctor first.

Ice Water Hack Recipes You Can Try at Home

All of these versions are designed to support weight loss and improve hydration. Choose the one that fits your routine best.

Basic 7-Second Ice Water Hack Recipe

This simple ice water hack is the most popular version of the trend. If you're wondering what the 7-second ice water hack recipe actually is, this is it.

You’ll need:

• 8 oz ice-cold water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Juice of ½ lemon
• A few ice cubes

How to make it:

1. Add the lemon juice and apple cider vinegar to the cold water
2. Stir quickly
3. Drink it all within 7 to 10 seconds

This version is said to support fat-burning and digestion, thanks to the benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar and lemon.

When to drink: Best taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to boost digestion and hydration. 

Caution: Vinegar is acidic. It may cause discomfort if you have a sensitive stomach. Start small, and rinse your mouth afterward to protect your teeth.

Ice Water Hack with Baking Soda

This version adds baking soda to the mix and is often linked to alkalizing benefits and fat-burning claims.

You’ll need:

• 8 oz ice-cold water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
• A few ice cubes

How to make it:

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass
2. Stir well, it may fizz
3. Drink it immediately

Caution: Baking soda may not be safe for everyone. It can cause bloating or affect sodium levels. Don’t use this version daily unless approved by a doctor.

Ice Water Hack with ACV, Ginger and Lemon

This variation adds ginger to boost metabolism and digestion.

You’ll need:

• 8 oz ice-cold water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (or ½ tsp powder)
• A few ice cubes

How to make it:

1. Mix all ingredients in cold water
2. Stir well and sip slowly

When to drink: Drink this in the morning on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals for best results.

Is the Ice Water Hack Safe For Everyone?

For most people, yes. Drinking cold water with natural ingredients is low risk. But there are a few exceptions.

Avoid this hack or talk to your doctor if you:

• Have Raynaud’s disease or are sensitive to cold
• Struggle with acid reflux, ulcers, or digestive issues
• Are on a sodium-restricted diet
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have kidney disease or take diuretics

Also, don’t overdo it with baking soda or acidic ingredients like vinegar. Start small and see how your body reacts.