Doctors say drinking warm water at this exact time boosts digestion and energy
Benefits of drinking warm water in the morning (photo: Freepik)
A glass of warm water in the morning is a simple habit that can bring noticeable benefits to the body. It can subtly improve digestion, help the body wake up after sleep, and support hydration, according to Verywell Health.
When to drink warm water
According to traditional Chinese medicine, the best times of day to drink warm water for digestion are:
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In the morning, after waking up, to stimulate digestion and hydrate the body
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During meals, to support digestion in the stomach
In traditional Chinese medicine, warm water is believed to promote healthy digestion. Warmth is said to relax the digestive tract muscles, thereby improving digestion.
When to drink according to Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an Indian system of medicine that originated thousands of years ago. Millions of people in Southeast Asia and around the world still practice it today.
Balancing body temperature is an important part of Ayurveda, and drinking warm water is an essential element.
Water should be boiled first and consumed warm. The recommended times include:
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After waking up – to stimulate digestion and restore the body’s hydration after sleep. Drink a full glass in small sips.
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Throughout the day – small sips every 30–60 minutes to prevent thirst and dehydration, and to keep digestion functioning normally.
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During meals – in small sips, no more than a quarter of the volume of food you eat.
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An hour before sleep – to aid digestion of food consumed during the day and prevent heaviness in the stomach before bed.
Benefits of warm water in the morning
According to the journal Gastroenterology, drinking warm water in the morning can help digestion by:
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Preventing constipation
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Restoring fluids lost during sleep
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Avoiding bloating and discomfort
Bowel movements can be a side effect of drinking warm water in the morning. This is likely due to the gastrocolic reflex – a natural response triggered when you consume food. It is especially noticeable in the morning when the stomach is empty.
It is recommended to drink most of your water before 4:00 p.m. In addition to potential digestive benefits, this may reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.