Drinking water is pretty much a good idea all of the time. Drinking water first thing in the morning is a GREAT idea and so important for your body. Here’s why:

• Water rehydrates the body: Drinking a glass of water rehydrates the body after 6-8 hours of recommended sleep. It is a long time to go without water and your body is looking for it right away. Most people look for coffee in the morning which is quite acidic and dehydrating. Reach for a glass of water instead or if you can’t ditch the coffee, have a glass of water alongside.

• Water increases your level of alertness: A glass of water in the morning will boost your alertness as well as your energy levels. Your brain has a higher concentration of water at about 75% than your body at 60-70%. Having enough water impacts brain function and focus as well as mood. Not only will you be more alert in the morning, but a glass of water will wake up your body and get it working the way it should.

• Water fuels the brain: If at any time during the day, you’re feeling sluggish, it could just mean that you need water. Staying hydrated is crucial for optimal brain function. Water ought to be consumed throughout the day but is extremely important in the morning. It sets the tone for the rest of the day. It becomes part of your routine and can increase your productivity as you get going faster.

• Water can help fight sickness: It boosts your immune system and flushes toxins from the body. Major organs such as your heart, kidneys, and lungs are primarily made up of water and so, it is important to replenish the water that your body has lost overnight. As you sleep, your immune system is working hard, and it needs water to be able to do what it needs to do.

• Water jump starts your metabolism: Everything that happens in your body, happens in solution. It is super important that you drink enough water and stay hydrated. The essential nutrients that you consume, are transported throughout the body via water. Having a sufficient amount of water will help stimulate your metabolism AND help with your diet as thirst is often mistaken for hunger.

Healthy people drink a lot of water. Period. 

Most of the water you need comes from the water and beverages that you drink. You can, however, get water from other sources such as broth soups and fruits and vegetables with high water content. Drinking a sufficient amount of water has a variety of benefits including but not limited to; maintaining a normal body temperature, lubricating and cushioning joints, protecting your spinal cord, and getting rid of waste through perspiration, urination, and bowel movements. The recommended intake of water is 8 glasses a day with 2-3 first thing in the morning. 

To share a personal experience, I did not grow up drinking water. As I learned about the importance, I would carry a gallon jug of water with me every day and try to drink a third of it in the morning. At first, I found it difficult. I didn’t like the taste of water. I didn’t want to drink water. I had to go to the bathroom all of the time. 

However, after persisting with the regimen, I found that my body craved it. I would wake up parched and thirsty because my body was looking for water. I was eventually able to drink a third of that gallon and not have to run to the bathroom. My body recognized that it was going to be regularly receiving water and it was ready for it and utilized it. 

Replacing the water that we lose throughout the day is the goal. 

We lose water through skin evaporation, breathing, urine and stool. These losses need to be replaced in order to maintain good health. If you are in a warmer climate, water is even more so important. We need to replenish what we are expending. This also applies to exercise or strenuous activity – the more you expend, the more you need to replace. 

In terms of benefits of water in general, water can also help to control calories. It is imperative for those trying to lose weight. It can be helpful to drink a glass of water before every meal. You don’t necessarily want to drink too much water during your meals or right after, as it may dilute hydrochloric acid and other enzymes needed to break down your food.  But drinking 10 minutes or so before eating can help you to eat less. 

Additionally, water helps to energize muscles and replaces water lost by sweating. Water keeps the skin looking good and reduces signs of aging. Water helps with the kidneys and regular elimination. When you’re getting enough water, all of your body’s systems can work as they should. 

So, we’ve made the case for water, but how can you ensure that you’re getting enough? 

In what ways can you increase your daily water intake to reach your goals? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Measure your water. Know the amount that you’re drinking. 
2. Always have a water bottle with you. 
3. If you’re looking for some flavor, put lemon in it. 
4. Eat more fruits and vegetables with high water content.
5. Choose beverages with little to no sugar or sweeteners.

If you’re thirsty, reach for water. Always have it nearby so that it becomes the easy and “go-to” choice. Finally, make sure to prioritize drinking water in the morning. It is perhaps the most crucial time of the day for water intake and this morning routine is sure to bring you positive and successful results.