Initially, I thought I was one of the few who enjoyed straight hot water in the morning, but this habit has surged in popularity in 2026. People across social media are now indulging in steaming cups of hot water, not due to reaching their caffeine limits (which has always been my rationale). The trend is linked to the “becoming Chinese” movement popularized by the Chinese-American TikToker Sherry Zhu (@sherryxiiruii).
Zhu has gained widespread attention for her straightforward and relatable discussions on a lifestyle influenced by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including the practice of consuming hot water instead of cold. Advocates claim this habit offers numerous benefits, such as detoxification, enhanced blood circulation, and warding off cold from the body. It stands out as one of the healthier trends on TikTok, reportedly better for blood sugar levels than the viral Japanese Cheesecake recipe, perfectly timed for the Chinese New Year festivities.
Zhu has dubbed hot water consumption a hallmark of a “Chinese Baddie,” and her popular insights into TCM are just one facet of a larger conversation celebrating its benefits. Many creators affirm that starting the day with hot water (prior to coffee) supports various aspects of health, from digestion to sleep quality, even giving a nod to ‘the Chinese Baddies’ who popularized this concept.
Why drinking hot water is becoming such a big trend
The “becoming Chinese” phenomenon integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices into daily life, affecting everything from clothing choices to after-dinner routines. Sherry Zhu and other influencers portray a TCM-centric lifestyle as a cozy, mindful approach to wellness, emphasizing diet, self-care, and maintaining body temperature. Other trends associated with the “Chinese Baddies” include wearing socks or slippers to keep feet warm, engaging in a brief walk post-meal, and avoiding sleeping with wet hair.
Hot water is at the heart of this trending lifestyle. It’s the preferred beverage to kickstart the morning and enjoy throughout the day. The temperature of the water is crucial to this practice, although some enthusiasts add garnishes like goji berries, lemon, or herbal teas for an extra health boost (for more on the effects of different types of tea, check out this article on why some teas induce sleep and others energize).
For a quick cup of hot water, consider the budget-friendly appliance that Gen Z swears by—simply use a coffee pod machine without the K-Cup. Alternatively, boiling water on the stovetop offers a more traditional approach. For an added twist, toss in a few apples of any variety (here’s an apple guide we didn’t know we needed) to enhance your hot water experience.
