Imagine going without any fluids for the next 8 hours. Sounds nearly impossible, doesn’t it? Yet, that’s exactly what happens to your body while you sleep. This is why, first thing in the morning, your priority should be rehydrating with a glass of water—16 ounces, to be precise!
During sleep, your body loses fluids, leading to dehydration. It also uses this time to detoxify and filter out waste accumulated throughout the day. Replenishing your body with water upon waking is crucial to kickstart these processes and support overall health.
In Japan, drinking water immediately after waking is a deeply rooted practice. It’s believed to aid in managing and even healing various conditions, such as epilepsy, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, and more. It’s also thought to promote healthy weight management and improve overall well-being.
While many people reach for tea or coffee first thing in the morning, starting your day with water offers unique benefits that these beverages can’t match.
### Why Drink Water on an Empty Stomach in the Morning?
As mentioned, your body detoxifies while you sleep, but by morning, it’s often low on the fluids needed to flush out toxins. Drinking water right after waking helps your kidneys eliminate waste more effectively, clearing out toxins that may be clogging your system.
Additionally, drinking water in the morning can boost your metabolism. Studies show that consuming 500 mL (about 16 ounces) of cool water upon waking can increase metabolic rate by up to 30% for an hour. This jumpstart can help you burn more calories throughout the day.
Your brain, which is 75% water, also benefits greatly from rehydration. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and reduced mental clarity. Drinking water first thing in the morning can sharpen your focus, improve alertness, and even curb unnecessary snacking by helping you feel fuller.
### The Reality of Morning Dehydration
Morning dehydration is no different from dehydration at any other time. It occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in, leaving it unable to perform essential functions. If you don’t replenish these fluids, dehydration can set in, leading to symptoms like:
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth and swollen tongue
- Weakness or dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion or sluggishness
- Fainting
- Reduced urine output
If you wake up feeling any of these symptoms, it’s a clear sign your body needs water. Another way to check your hydration levels is by observing the color of your urine. Bright yellow urine indicates dehydration, while a pale yellow or clear color suggests proper hydration.
### How Much Water Should You Drink in the Morning?
To make rehydration a habit, try keeping a glass of water by your bedside. This simple reminder can help you drink water as soon as you wake up, even if you’re still groggy.
Experts recommend drinking about 1 liter (roughly 4 cups) of water at least 45 minutes before your first meal. If drinking that much at once feels challenging, start with a smaller amount—like one glass—and gradually increase it each day until you reach the recommended intake.
It’s also important to listen to your body. Often, we mistake thirst for hunger, so drinking water before meals can help you stay hydrated and avoid overeating. Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day, not just in the morning, to maintain optimal hydration levels.
### Final Thoughts
Starting your day with water is a simple yet powerful habit that can significantly impact your health. From boosting metabolism and mental clarity to aiding detoxification and reducing dehydration symptoms, the benefits are undeniable. So, before you reach for that cup of coffee, give your body what it truly needs—a refreshing glass of water. Your body (and brain) will thank you!
