Here’s when you should be drinking water
Thanks to social media, we are bombarded with numerous tips, tricks, and health advice on the regular. But, much like all things on the Internet, it is essential to double (or even triple) check all the information that is served to us at the click of a button. And to make your life easier, we take it upon ourselves to bring you information that is verified by experts in the field — whether it is about how to choose a perfectly ripe pomegranate, the nutritional profile of your humble garlic, or the oat-zempic diet for weight loss that has been doing the rounds on social media.
So, when we chanced upon a post by dietitian Simran Vohra, in which she listed down the 7 best times to drink water in a day, we decided to find out more. According to Vohra, one should drink water:
1) After you get up, which helps activate intern organs
2) After a workout, which helps bring heart rate back to normal
3) 30 minutes before meal, which helps in digestion
4) Before taking a bath, which helps to lower blood pressure
5) Before going to bed, which helps replenish any fluid loss
6) When you are feeling tired, which helps you recharge your system
7) When you are ill, which hydrates the body for proper functioning
We reached out to Dr Pratik Tibdewal, consultant gastroenterologist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road , requesting him to further shed light on these pointers in detail.
1) After you first get up: Drinking water in the morning after waking up can help activate your internal organs. “It kickstarts your metabolism, hydrates your body after hours of sleep, and helps in the elimination of toxins,” said Dr Tibdewal.
2) After a workout: When you exercise, your body loses water through sweat. According to Dr Tibdewal, drinking water after a workout helps replenish lost fluids, restores hydration levels, and brings your heart rate back to normal. “It aids in muscle recovery and prevents dehydration,” said Dr Tibdewal.
3) 30 minutes before a meal: Drinking water half an hour before a meal can aid in digestion. Dr Tibdewal elucidated that it helps in preparing the stomach for food by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. “Additionally, it can create a sense of fullness, which may help in portion control and preventing overeating,” said Dr Tibdewal.
4) Before taking a bath: Drinking water before taking a bath can help to lower blood pressure. Dr Tibdewal said that it is believed that it can temporarily dilute your blood, making it easier for your heart to pump. “However, it’s important to note that this is not a substitute for medical treatment if you have high blood pressure,” said Dr Tibdewal.
Ensure you are drinking water to prevent overeating (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
5) Before going to bed: Drinking water before bedtime replenishes any fluid loss that may have occurred throughout the day. Dr Tibdewal said that it helps in maintaining hydration levels while you sleep and can prevent dehydration symptoms like dry mouth or headache in the morning.
6) When you’re feeling tired: Dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue. Dr Tibdewal mentioned that when you’re feeling tired, drinking water can help hydrate your body and provide a refreshing boost of energy. “It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid fatigue,” said Dr Tibdewal.
7) When you’re ill: Hydration is crucial when you’re ill as it supports your body’s natural functions. Drinking water helps in maintaining optimal body temperature, lubricates joints, aids in digestion, and facilitates the transport of nutrients and oxygen to cells, said Dr Tibdewal.
What else to keep in mind?
Dr Tibdewal said that one should remember to listen to their body and adjust the water intake based on one’s individual needs, activity levels, and climate conditions. “It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day and make drinking water a regular part of your routine for overall well-being,” said Dr Tibdewal.
