Drinking water is a simple act, with a multitude of benefits for physical and mental health. But be careful, it's not just a matter of how much water you drink, but also when you drink it, to improve your health.
Drinking water can make the difference between feeling tired or energized, between tired skin and glowing skin, between uncontrolled hunger and a more active metabolism.
According to some studies, there are strategic moments when drinking alcohol can help the body function better, regulate internal rhythms, and give a concrete boost to daily well-being.
As soon as you wake up to activate your metabolism
Drinking a large glass of water as soon as you wake up is one of the most common and effective tips. This is because after a long night's sleep, the body is dehydrated and needs to be revitalized.
A glass of water in the morning helps speed up your metabolism, promotes the elimination of toxins, and prepares your body for breakfast. Adding a few drops of lemon will further enhance the detoxifying effect.
When you're hungry (but don't know if you're really hungry)
How many times have you felt a little thirsty and eaten something light, only to realize that you weren't actually hungry? In reality, the body often confuses thirst with hunger.
Drinking a glass of water during those times can help you figure out whether you really need food or just hydration. This is a useful strategy, not only for controlling calories, but also for getting to know yourself better.
During meals, but without exaggerating
Some people think that drinking water with meals can slow down digestion. In reality, when consumed in moderate amounts, water can help break down food in the stomach and help digestive enzymes do their job better.
However, it's important not to overdo it. Drinking too much water at once can dilute gastric juices and somewhat slow down the digestive process. Our advice? Small sips, at room temperature, especially if the dishes are very salty or spicy.
Between meals
The time between breakfast, lunch, and dinner is often the ideal time to drink water without straining your digestion. It is during these hours that the body begins to slowly dehydrate, especially if you are working, moving a lot, or exposed to air conditioning.
Drinking water between meals helps maintain hydration levels and can also keep emotional cravings in check. And if you occasionally forget, set an alarm: your body will thank you.
Before, during and after a workout
Anyone who plays sports knows that drinking water can have a huge impact on performance. Drinking water before exercise helps prepare muscles, lubricate joints, and maintain high energy levels.
During and after physical activity, it is essential to replenish fluids lost through sweat: small sips every 15-20 minutes are enough to avoid stomach aches, dizziness or premature fatigue. Whether you are a 10K runner or a light yoga practitioner, hydration is an integral part of your fitness routine.
When you need energy
In those moments when you feel exhausted, instead of immediately grabbing a coffee, try a glass of water: dehydration, even mild, can cause a drop in energy, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Hydration helps blood flow and oxygenate tissues, including the brain. And if you're at the gym or have just exercised, remember that replenishing fluids is even more important to avoid stomach aches, headaches, and fatigue.
Before the menstrual cycle, to reduce swelling and irritability
The days before your period are known for bloating, water retention, and mood swings. It may seem paradoxical, but drinking more water actually helps you retain less fluid: staying hydrated stimulates your kidneys to work better, helps flush out waste, and also helps reduce the feeling of heaviness and fatigue typical of PMS.
When you are not well.
Fever, flu, stomach virus or headache. In all these cases, water is an invisible but powerful cure. The body, under stress, consumes more fluids to lower the temperature, eliminate toxins and recover.
During illness, the skin also tends to dry out and lose elasticity. That's why one of the first medical pieces of advice when you're feeling unwell is: "Drink lots of water." Knowing when to drink water can really help you recover faster.
When you want to lose weight
If you're trying to lose weight, remember that water can be a powerful ally. Drinking it regularly throughout the day speeds up your metabolism, supports kidney function, and prevents water retention.
Furthermore, water actively participates in lipolysis (fat breakdown) and reduces cravings for sugary drinks or high-calorie snacks. For this reason, it is essential to know when to drink water to achieve the desired results.
Before bed, but in moderation
Drinking a small glass of water before bed can help avoid dehydration at night, which is more common than you might think.
However, it is advisable not to overdo it, so that you do not have to wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. One sip is enough to maintain balance and help you rest better.
(A2 Televizion)