Bilal Saeed
It is essential for almost all physiological processes, including waste removal, joint lubrication, temperature regulation, and nutrient circulation. It should come as no surprise that water intake is at the centre of numerous wellness trends given its critical role in our health. The practice of drinking water first thing in the morning, frequently coupled with audacious health claims, is one such habit that is becoming more and more widespread. However, how much of this practice is true, and is timing water consumption really as crucial as some people claim?
It’s common knowledge that drinking water first thing in the morning can “kickstart” the body by rehydrating after sleep, eliminating toxins, and even increasing metabolism. But rather than having solid scientific support, these assertions are usually founded on anecdotal evidence. It may be overemphasised to drink water as soon as you wake up, even if it’s good to do so at any time of day. Although hydration is unquestionably important, the time of day it occurs may not have the same profound effect on the body as many people think.
Depending on a number of variables, such as the quantity of water consumed the day before, alcohol consumption, or the humidity level of the surrounding air, the body may be mildly dehydrated after a night’s sleep. While consuming water in the morning aids in fluid replenishment, it is not always more advantageous than consuming water continuously throughout the day. Urine colour first thing in the morning is often thought to be a good sign of hydration levels, but studies have shown that this isn’t always the case. Because of the body’s nighttime processes, morning pee is frequently inherently more concentrated and may not accurately represent one’s level of hydration.
However, if it motivates someone to hydrate more regularly, drinking water in the morning can be a component of a healthy routine. Better overall hydration can be achieved by forming routines like setting a glass of water on your bedside table or drinking water before coffee, especially for those who frequently forget to drink water during the day. But it’s crucial to remember that overall water consumption over a 24-hour period—rather than just timing—is what counts most.
Whether drinking water before meals can aid in weight loss is another hotly contested issue. According to some research, drinking water before meals may make you feel fuller longer, which could help you eat fewer calories. One possible explanation for a faster metabolic rate is water-induced thermogenesis, in which the body uses calories to heat water to body temperature.
Furthermore, some people may experience discomfort or digestive enzyme dilution if they consume water too soon before eating. It is therefore wise to strike a balance and pay attention to one’s physique. The best method for long-term weight control is still drinking water consistently throughout the day in addition to eating well and exercising. Overemphasising the timing of water consumption rather than its quantity can take attention away from more important lifestyle practices.
Japanese water treatment has also gained popularity as wellness practices gain popularity. This approach entails consuming many glasses of warm or room temperature water as soon as you wake up and adhering to certain mealtime guidelines. Proponents assert that this procedure can help with a variety of ailments, including chronic disorders like diabetes and hypertension as well as constipation. Some even promote it as a cancer prevention strategy. Avoiding cold water is based on the assumption that it hardens fats in the digestive tract, which is thought to cause slower digestion and a higher risk of disease
However, there isn’t any scientific proof to support these grandiose claims, even with its increasing popularity and numerous anecdotal success stories. Effective detoxification systems are already in place in the body, mainly through the liver and kidneys. Although drinking water at certain times of the day has not been shown to have a major impact on detoxification or illness prevention, it is necessary to support these systems. Japanese water therapy’s most extreme health claims should be viewed with scepticism, even though it may assist some people maintain intestinal regularity and improve their daily water intake.
What is the recommended daily intake of water? Individual needs can vary greatly, but the often-quoted “8×8” rule—eight 8-ounce glasses each day—is simply a basic guideline. The amount of water a person needs depends on a number of factors, including age, sex, body weight, activity level, and climate. For instance, sedentary people in temperate areas may require substantially less fluid intake than athletes or those living in hotter climates.
It’s also critical to remember that plain water isn’t the only source of water. A variety of fruits, vegetables, and drinks like milk or tea help you stay hydrated overall. Moderate intake of caffeinated beverages does not completely invalidate their hydrating qualities, even though both alcohol and caffeine can have diuretic effects.
In summary, it is not a terrible habit to drink water first thing in the morning; in fact, it can be a helpful reminder to stay hydrated throughout the day. But it’s not a magic trick that improves health by itself. Consistency is the most crucial element of hydration. What really counts is making sure your body gets enough water to function properly, regardless of the time of day. Trends like Japanese water therapy might highlight the value of staying hydrated, but they should be viewed critically and tailored to each person’s needs. We should concentrate on developing a balanced approach to water consumption that complements our long-term well-being and fits organically into our lifestyles rather than worrying excessively about scheduling.