What if the secret to feeling healthier and more energized every day was tied to something you do before 9 a.m.? It sounds simple, but experts say that a small change in your morning routine could have a lasting impact on your well-being. You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle or commit to a strict diet or fitness plan to improve your health. Sometimes, all it takes is one healthy habit at the right moment to set the tone for a positive day. According to dietitians and health experts, the key could be as simple as drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning.
The Power of Hydration: Why You Should Drink Water Before 9 a.m.
We often think of major lifestyle shifts—like changing our diet or starting a rigorous exercise routine—when aiming to improve our health. However, experts suggest that something as simple as drinking water right after waking up could yield substantial benefits.
Sarah Nash, a registered dietitian, explains that starting the day with a glass of water is an easy yet effective way to rehydrate your body after a night’s rest. “Drinking water in the morning helps replenish the fluids lost during sleep, promotes digestion, boosts metabolism, and can even enhance your focus and energy levels,” she says. Many people don’t realize that after hours of sleep, our bodies are naturally dehydrated, and rehydrating early on can make a noticeable difference in how we feel throughout the day.
A Simple Habit with Immediate Benefits
The benefits of morning hydration are quickly felt. “A lot of my clients report feeling more alert and focused just by hydrating before they reach for their coffee,” shares dietitian Shelby Becker. Hydration is directly linked to cognitive function, and a well-hydrated body performs better mentally and physically. By starting the day with water, you’re giving yourself a natural energy boost, without the need for stimulants like caffeine.
Stacy Roberts-Davis, a doctor of nutrition sciences, emphasizes that morning hydration compensates for fluid loss due to nighttime breathing and perspiration. “This replenishment is essential for good health and helps kickstart your body’s daily functions,” she says. Additionally, staying hydrated in the morning can aid in digestion throughout the day and even help prevent issues like constipation or kidney stones.
Alternatives to Plain Water
If plain water doesn’t appeal to you first thing in the morning, don’t worry—you have options. You can try herbal teas or prepare fruit-infused water the night before to make it more enjoyable. The important thing is to make hydration a consistent part of your routine, and your body will thank you.
By simply incorporating a glass of water into your morning, you can improve your alertness, digestion, and overall health without any drastic changes. It’s a small, simple habit that could make a big difference to your day and your long-term well-being.