Water is an important element in human life. We have a habit of drinking water whenever we feel thirsty. We cannot even imagine going a day without drinking water. But would you believe that there is an appropriate time to drink water?
Water is critical for the function of our digestion, heart, lungs, and brain. There are many guidelines about when to drink water and how much to drink. Here are five times when drinking water is advisable:
1. In the morning after we wake up
Studies show that starting a day by drinking fresh water is good for our body. Drinking water on an empty stomach early in the morning helps keep the body hydrated after a long night’s rest and boosts metabolism. Because we don’t drink while we’re sleeping, we wake up already dehydrated. Drinking water in the morning is also very helpful in keeping digestive problems at bay. Take breakfast at least half an hour after drinking the first glass of water. Have a glass of water approximately one hour after breakfast.
2. Before meals
A glass of water before a meal may help to regulate hunger. Drinking water at least 20 minutes before eating food helps to ease digestion. It also deters us from overeating thus helping in controlling gaining weight. Some studies also suggest having a glass of water to help wash down a meal. Water is especially important to drink alongside high-fiber foods. Fiber moves through your digestive system and absorbs water, helping form stools and promote regularity
3. Before and after exercise
Be sure to drink water before and after workouts to avoid fatigue and muscle cramps. Particularly those who are sweaty, make sure you’re drinking water regularly in the days leading up to a workout. For moderate workouts (such as a jog outside or a speed walk in the morning), drink a glass of water about 30 minutes prior, and sip during exercise. Then be sure to hydrate well after your workout is complete to replace the water you’ve lost through sweat.
4. When having a headache
A headache can be a symptom of dehydration. For those with migraines, increasing water intake may help decrease migraine severity, frequency, and duration.
5. Before bedtime
Drink a glass of water before going to bed. Drinking more water before going to bed will disturb your sleep. You may have to get up in the middle of the night to go to the washroom.
Even drinking caffeine six hours before bed, was found to disrupt sleep. A sugary drink can have similar unwelcome effects. Instead of turning to these unhealthy solutions, addressing the dehydration with ample amount of water will keep your body and mind healthy. In addition to fatigue, dehydration can cause anger, hostility, confusion, and depression.
Staying hydrated is very important. For this, you need to drink at least four liters of water in a day. Take special care to prevent dehydration.
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