There’s no doubt that water is essential to our health as humans.
Accounting for up to 75% of your body weight, water plays a key role in regulating everything from brain function to physical performance to digestion — and much more. Still, while it’s clear that drinking enough water is important to health, you may wonder whether timing matters.
This blog post takes a look at the evidence to evaluate the best time to drink water.
A. In the morning
Enjoying a glass of water first thing in the morning is a simple way to start your day off on the right foot.
Some may also find that drinking water right when they wake up makes it easier to maintain healthy hydration habits and increase fluid intake throughout the day.
If you’re dehydrated, increasing your daily water intake can help boost your hydration levels, which may be especially beneficial for improving mood, brain function, and energy levels.
However, while some may find that drinking water in the morning works for them, there’s no evidence to suggest that it’s any more beneficial to drink water in the morning than at other times during the day.
B. Before meals
Drinking a glass of water just before eating a meal is a great strategy if you’re trying to lose weight.
Doing so can not only help enhance feelings of fullness but also decrease your intake during that meal.
C. Before and after exercise
When you work out, you lose water and electrolytes through sweat.
Drinking plenty of water before and after exercising is important to keep your body hydrated and help replenish any lost fluids
Excessive fluid losses during your workout can also harm physical performance and cause electrolyte imbalances.
It’s recommended to drink water or an electrolyte drink after exercising to help replace any lost fluids and optimize performance and recovery
Irrespective of when you drink water, it should be noted that consistency is key. The body tightly regulates water balance during the day, and excess water is excreted out of the body via your skin, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system.
Try setting a timer to remind yourself to drink at regular intervals, and keep a glass of water on hand throughout the day to help you reach your goals.
In summary, note that enjoying a glass of water first thing in the morning may make it easier to maintain healthy habits and increase your daily water intake.