Many people instinctively reach for coffee as soon as they wake up, but what the body truly craves first is water. After six to eight hours without fluids, your system is dehydrated and in need of replenishment. Since the human body is about 70 percent water, it’s no surprise that daily hydration is essential for maintaining good health. Experts highlight numerous benefits to drinking water right after waking.
In fact, it should be the very first step in your morning routine. Some recommend drinking a few cups and waiting at least 45 minutes before consuming anything else, while others suggest that coffee is fine—as long as it’s paired with a glass of water to offset its dehydrating effect. Ultimately, the key is to establish a water routine that suits you, beginning at the start of the day and continuing steadily throughout it.
How much water should you drink?
Some experts recommend a beginning of the day with three full cups of water. Slowly increase the amount of water taken every morning for the body to adjust. Drinking any at all is better than none. Find the amount of water that makes you feel best.
What is special about the morning?
During sleep, the body undergoes a natural fast — often beginning a few hours before bedtime. This means no food or fluids are consumed, leaving the stomach empty and the body mildly dehydrated by morning. Drinking water upon waking helps restore hydration and supports recovery from this overnight deficit. In fact, water is absorbed more efficiently when the stomach is empty. Because dehydration can contribute to various health issues, rehydrating first thing in the morning is vital. So, what are the benefits of starting your day with water? Here are some key advantages:
Better skin
Dehydration can really damage your skin. Drinking water in the morning will lead to better-hydrated skin and reduced wrinkles and will increase the skin’s natural glow.
Better hair
The hair is 25 per cent water. Too little water can make it dry and brittle. Drinking water in the morning can increase its shine and strength.
A boosted immune system
Drinking water on an empty stomach helps balance the lymph system — an important part of the immune system. This makes it easier for the body to fight off infections.
Fewer kidney stones
Water dilutes the acid in the kidneys, so fewer kidney stones form.
Cleansed bowels
Drinking water before eating breakfast helps flush out the bowels every morning. This can help keep harmful bacteria from building up. It also helps your intestines absorb nutrients faster.
Increased toxin flushing
Drinking lots of water will help you flush toxins out of all areas of your body. This will help the immune system and make you feel better overall.
Decreased heartburn
Drinking water first thing in the morning will dilute the stomach acid and help digest food.
Fewer headaches
Dehydration commonly causes headaches. By drinking water first thing, you can decrease the number of headaches that you get.
Source: www.medicinenet.com
