Water is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle. No matter what you’re doing, you need to stay hydrated. Drinking ample water can help with caloric expenditure, weight loss, and keeping your digestive system functional. Besides that, you need to drink water at the right time. Research shows that exercise and morning hydration has the greatest impact on weight loss and health.

Here are some of the best times to drink water:

1. First thing in the morning
Drinking water in the morning helps your body release toxins in the blood. This occurrence is due to the overnight fast that causes your body to draw upon its water reserves. When you wake up, your brain stops secreting vasopressin, the hormone that controls fluid retention, allowing your kidneys to start shedding excess water. First thing in the morning is also a great time because it starts your metabolism early, preparing you to burn more calories throughout the day. The water will also help replenish any fluids lost during sleep so you can get on with your day immediately

2. Before every meal
Water helps your body process calories because it expands and absorbs some of the food you eat into your system. If you skip this step, the food won’t get broken down better and can lead to a vicious cycle of weight gain. Additionally, water reduces appetite and helps prevent binge eating. Water also keeps your digestive system running at peak performance, so a glass of water before meals is crucial for optimal digestion

3. Before you exercise
Drinking water before a workout helps you consume more calories, which is critical for burning fat. It also helps to prevent dehydration during exercise. Water also keeps your body at the right temperature. A drink of water before you begin exercising will keep you from overheating and make it easier to push yourself in an aerobic workout. Before your exercise session, drink a glass of water at room temperature to better absorb it into the body. Cooler water doesn’t absorb as quickly and can even cause cramps because it takes the body longer to hydrate itself.

4. After your workout
The post-workout period is so vital for recovery. Water helps restore the minerals and electrolytes lost through sweat to promote muscle growth, recovery, and physical performance. Drinking water after a workout also keeps you from feeling hungry because it takes away fatigue caused by dehydration.

5. Consistently throughout the day
Drinking water consistently throughout the day helps to prevent dehydration and gives you more energy. It also makes you feel fuller between meals and can reduce overeating. Besides that, it can help to keep you focused during work hours, which is crucial for productivity. Drinking water throughout the day can help you stay hydrated by preventing cramping due to dehydration and keeping your digestive health in check.