Advocates claim it can transform your health, but how much of this is fact, and how much is simply hype?
If you’ve heard that drinking water first thing in the morning is a hydration game-changer, think again! While it’s commonly believed that swigging some H2O on an empty stomach rehydrates your body after a night’s rest, the science isn’t entirely on board.
In this article we’ll break down some of the myths floating around so you can make an informed decision on how you’ll stay hydrated.
Urine color
Many people assume they wake up dehydrated because their urine tends to be darker first thing in the morning. It’s a common belief that your body is crying out for water after hours without hydration during sleep.
But here’s the thing – it’s only partially true. While dark urine might suggest dehydration, it’s not always a reliable indicator of your overall hydration levels.
According to research, “[study participants] were not particularly well hydrated,” despite “having lighter-colored urine.”
“That’s because large intakes of water can dilute urine, causing it to be a lighter or more transparent color – even if dehydration exists.”
Starting your day with a glass of water can make you feel like you’re prioritizing hydration, but the timing of water consumption isn’t the key factor here.
Calorie control and weight loss
Drinking water before breakfast is often touted as a weight-loss trick, but how much truth is there to this?
Water can increase feelings of fullness, which might help reduce calorie intake. There’s also evidence supporting water-induced thermogenesis – where drinking water boosts your body’s metabolic rate for about 60 minutes.
However, the timing of water consumption isn’t as significant as the overall habit of drinking enough water.
Medical News Today reports that one study showed drinking water before breakfast reduced calorie intake at the next meal by about 13%. Interestingly, another study found similar results when participants drank water 30 minutes before lunch. It seems that the key takeaway here is less about timing and more about staying hydrated to support healthy eating habits!
Mind and mood
Have you ever struggled to concentrate after a long day? Water doesn’t just fuel your body – it also powers your brain.
Several studies reveal that drinking water throughout the day – not just after waking – can help maintain clarity and productivity.
In fact, a 2016 study reveals that “drinking water improved memory and focused attention” and that “in the short-term, thirst was associated with poorer memory.”
Even mild dehydration can impair focus, memory, and decision-making.
And it can also elevate your mood.
Research published in the National Library of Medicine explains that people who increased their water intake experienced better moods and reduced fatigue.
The research also revealed that individuals who typically consumed high amounts experienced lower levels of contentment, and a noticeable decline in calmness and positive emotions when they reduced their water intake.
But it has nothing to do with the time of day, science only shows that hydration is key!
Radiant skin
If you’re chasing that dewy, glowing complexion, hydration is key, but there’s no drinking schedule to determine how radiant you look.
Skin is made of about 30% water and staying hydrated through the day helps keep it plump and resilient.
Drinking helps:
- Improve elasticity.
- Reduce dryness.
- Maintain a healthy skin barrier.
But make manage your expectations, it’s not a fountain of youth.
While water is crucial for skin health, it won’t erase wrinkles or counteract sun damage. A combination of hydration, a good skincare routine, and sun protection is your best bet for long-term results.
Hydration needs
The ideal intake varies widely depending on factors like your age, gender, activity level, and overall health. While the popular “8×8” rule – eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day – provides a simple guideline, hydration needs are personal.
Also, be mindful that if you drink too much, water toxicity may occur.
From aiding digestion and weight loss to enhancing mood and brainpower, hydration is the foundation of well-being.
Please let us know if you have any tricks to staying hydrated and then share this story with your friends so we can hear from them!
