đ§ Drinking Water on an Empty Stomach: What Does It Really Do?
You may have seen claims that drinking water immediately after waking up can âflush toxins,â burn fat, cure constipation, or prevent disease. Most of those claims are exaggerated.
What it actually does
- Rehydrates you after several hours without drinking.
- Supports normal kidney function, circulation and digestion.
- Can help keep stools softer and reduce constipation when you’re adequately hydrated. (Mayo Clinic)
- May help you feel fuller if you drink water before a meal.
There is nothing magical about drinking it on an empty stomach. You can get the same hydration benefits by drinking water throughout the day. Mayo Clinic notes that individual fluid needs vary with factors such as age, activity, health and climate. (Mayo Clinic)
đŤ What it doesn’t do
Drinking water first thing in the morning does not âwash toxins out of your bodyâ or dramatically accelerate metabolism. Your kidneys and liver already perform the body’s waste-processing functions.
â ď¸ One important exception
If you have heart, kidney or liver disease, your healthcare professional may have given you a specific fluid limit. Don’t suddenly increase your water intake without checking with them. (Mayo Clinic)
Bottom line: A glass of water when you wake up is a perfectly healthy habit if you enjoy itâbut the important thing is getting enough fluid over the whole day, not drinking it at a particular time.
