Coffee is a part of our morning routine in the United States. Most people can’t function properly without their first cup of coffee in the morning. What do you reach for when you wake up in the morning – a cup of coffee or a glass or water?
More than half the United States are coffee drinkers. However, according to Harvard University, there are studies to show that too much coffee can have harmful effects associated with the beverage, particularly if not consumed in moderation. Water should be the first thing you drink in the morning and the last thing you consume before going to bed. Let’s take a look at the research and facts associated with water and health.
Water is the body’s standard fluid
Cars run off fuel. Humans run off water. Without it, our bodies can’t function properly and we would eventually die. Water does wonders for our wellness.
According to Angela Lemond, a national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietrics, “an adult body is around 55-60% water. Drinking water everyday is vital for the body to work correctly.”
When we wake up in the morning, our bodies are depleted of water. Drinking a glass or two right when you wake up will aid in better digestion when you have breakfast. It will also lead to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. If you ever had a problem going to the bathroom, water will aid with regular bowel movements in the morning. It’s important to be properly hydrated in the morning so your mind and body are ready to take on the day ahead.
Kickstart your metabolism
Some might think coffee helps your metabolism and body function properly but it actually does the opposite. It makes you dehydrated, in turn, needing more water to stay on top of your game throughout the day.
Drinking water before a meal is also a good idea because it makes you consume less calories. Your body tends to mistake thirst for hunger when you’re dehydrated, leading to overeating at times. It’s vital to stay hydrated before you eat your meals. This is a way you can lose weight. When you get hungry, try drinking a glass of water and see if you eat less. This might be a good habit to acquire if you are on a weight loss plan.
There are also false facts going around that the temperature of your water, whether it be cold, hot or at room temperate helps with losing weight. It honestly doesn’t factor in as much as you would think. Room temperature is easiest for your body to digest. Nonetheless, choose the temperature that helps you drink more water throughout the day is what we recommended.
Water hydrates your skin and makes you feel younger
How many glasses of water should I drink each day?
There is no set amount of how much you should drink. The average person needs around 8 to 12 cups of water per day says Mindy Gribble, registered nurse of the WINGS Survivorship Program coordinator for the Marshfield Clinic Oncology/Hematology Department. That varies depending on where you live int he country and how active you are. Obviously, living in Arizona, you will probably need more than someone living in Alaska. When you feel thirsty, that’s a sure sign you are probably dehydrated already. It’s important to drink water before you feel thirsty.
A good sign of your hydration level is to look at your pee. If your pee is dark yellow, that means you are very dehydrated. If its clear and doesn’t smell, you are properly hydrated.
Avoid eating and drinking at the same time
Most people drink water, coffee, or alcohol during their meals. However, it’s actually best not to drink anything during a meal until after you are finished, followed by water at room temperature. Most digestive issues such as gas, bloating and upset stomach are caused by liquids you consume with your food. Drinking water before and after meal helps ensure optimal digestion, granting the body enough gastric fluids to break down food. Drinking coffee and alcohol during a meal can make your stomach upset because the two don’t mix well with foods and breaking down he nutrients.