Should You Drink Water as Soon as You Wake Up? Health Benefits Explained

Water is extremely important for life, and so your body needs it for smooth functioning. According to experts, to be healthier, you should drink water first thing in the morning. However, you may also

wonder whether the time of day really makes a difference when it comes to hydration. Drinking right after you wake up not just helps you replenish the fluids you lost and boosts your metabolism, but it is also great for your overall health.

What does water do to your body on an empty stomach?

Drinking water first thing in the morning offers health benefits beyond those associated with drinking it at other times of the day. A few of these include:

Hydration

The first pee of the day is always very dark in colour due to less hydration during sleeping hours. And to make the urine less concentrated, you need to drink a glass of water right after you get out of bed.

Increases feelings of fullness

Evidence suggests that high water consumption – especially in the morning – can help you reduce your daily calorie intake. It not only satiates you but also increases your feelings of fullness.

Helps in weight loss

The relationship between water and weight loss is partly attributed to its thermogenic effect - the energy required to warm up cold water in the digestive tract after consumption. According to studies, water-induced thermogenesis has the potential to increase your body’s metabolic rate by 24–30 per cent in adults, and the effect lasts about 60 minutes.

Improves mental health

Dehydration is strongly linked to low mental performance, which means that completing tasks like concentrating, memorising, or learning new things becomes more difficult. Studies say even mild dehydration can negatively affect alertness, short-term memory, and physical performance.

Improves metabolism

Experts believe that a glass of cold water jump-starts your metabolism, which can help you with weight loss and management. According to studies, drinking water at 37°F (3°C) causes a 5 per cent increase in the number of calories burnt.

Regulates digestion

Water plays a crucial role in digestion, as it facilitates the movement of food and waste through the intestines. It also makes your kidneys perform better by getting rid of toxins that build up while you sleep. Studies indicate that drinking adequate water helps food move through the intestines more easily, which aids in digestion and promotes regular bowel movements. Drinking enough water also helps the kidneys perform correctly, which helps the body get rid of pollutants.

Useful tips for drinking water

A few methods to make the most of drinking water in the morning include:

• Drink 1 to 2 cups (250–500 ml) of water right after you wake up to make up for the fluids you lost.
• Do not add any kind of sugar, sweetener, or caffeine in the morning because they can make you even more thirsty.
• Choose water that is at room temperature or slightly warm, as it helps with digestion.
• If you work out a lot, drink additional water afterward to stay hydrated.