A UK general practitioner has drawn attention by detailing the specific health benefits of drinking water immediately after waking up.
According to British media outlet Daily Express on May 31 (local time), Dr. Amar Khan, a general practitioner, recommended drinking a glass of water right after waking as a "10-second morning habit" to start the day healthy.
"The first thing you should do before your morning coffee is drink a glass of water," he said. "You should keep water by your bedside and make a habit of drinking it as soon as you wake up."
The first benefit Dr. Amar Khan emphasized is boosting metabolism. "A glass of water activates your metabolism, signaling your body to wake up and start functioning, and it also helps flush out waste products processed overnight," he explained.
Appetite suppression effects have also been confirmed. Research conducted by Queen's University in Canada on obese adults found that drinking 500 milliliters of water before meals for 12 weeks led to approximately 2 kilograms of weight loss.
It also helps improve digestive function. "Your stomach and intestines need hydration to function properly, and this is even more important if you eat a fiber-rich breakfast," Dr. Amar Khan said. When water enters the stomach, it triggers the gastrocolic reflex, in which the colon reflexively begins activity, aiding bowel movement and defecation.
Drinking water also positively affects skin health. Approximately 70% of the skin is composed of water, and when hydration is insufficient, collagen and elastic fiber production is impaired, leading to loss of elasticity and wrinkles. Adequate water intake promotes smooth blood circulation, which helps clear the skin and regulate sebum secretion.
However, caution is needed with hot water above 60 degrees Celsius, as it can irritate the esophagus and stomach. For drinking on an empty stomach, water at around 30 degrees Celsius — slightly below body temperature — is recommended.
