Many people have the habit of drinking water on an empty stomach after waking up in the morning, with most choosing plain water primarily to cleanse the intestines, promote bowel movements, or hydrate. However, online rumors suggest drinking salt water on an empty stomach in the morning is more effective for cleansing the intestines. Is this true? How should one drink the first glass of water for optimal health?
Is Salt Water Better Than Plain Water on an Empty Stomach?
Experts state that only highly concentrated saltwater can aid bowel movements; diluted saltwater lacks this effect. To achieve better laxative results, the saltwater must be sufficiently concentrated—a standard diluted saltwater clearly fails to meet.
When we consume sufficiently concentrated salt water, we perceive it as extremely salty and may unconsciously drink more water. This actually dilutes the laxative effect of the salt water itself. In reality, whether you consume diluted salt water or regular salt water for laxative purposes, there isn't much difference compared to plain water.
Warm water is more beneficial for bowel movements
Traditional Chinese medicine experts emphasize the importance of the first drink in the morning. When comparing drinking diluted salt water versus warm water on an empty stomach, warm water is more conducive to bowel movements. If the salt concentration in morning diluted salt water is not properly controlled, it can increase thirst, draw moisture from the body, and paradoxically lead to dry mouth and dehydration.
Light salt water should not be consumed indiscriminately
Additionally, experts caution that drinking salt water on an empty stomach may trigger other symptoms harmful to health. Morning blood is already highly hypertonic, and blood pressure is at its peak daily. Supplementing with sodium ions can further elevate blood pressure, posing risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular/cerebrovascular conditions.
What beverage consumed on an empty stomach in the morning promotes bowel movements?
The answer is: warm water.
Drinking warm water on an empty stomach in the morning certainly benefits our health, but how should we drink it to truly achieve the goal of promoting bowel movements?
Experts say:
① The water temperature should be between 35°C and 40°C, which is close to our body temperature;
② We should drink at least 300 milliliters;③ It should be gulped down in large, rapid sips to effectively stimulate bowel movements.
Mastering the first glass of water in the morning is quite an art. Qingbao News will now share which beverages are ideal upon waking and which should be avoided~
This is the most scientifically sound way to hydrate in the morning!
Recommended First-Cup Options
1
Plain Water
Warm plain water is the ideal beverage—calorie-free and readily absorbed without digestion. Room-temperature water is generally recommended.
2. Honey Water
Drinking a cup of honey water on an empty stomach in the morning replenishes fluids and boosts nutrition. For the elderly and those with constipation, it also promotes bowel movements.
3. Lemon Water
Drinking a cup of lemon water on an empty stomach each morning is highly effective for constipation caused by physical weakness. It also aids digestion and brightens skin tone.However, remember to rinse your mouth afterward, as it can damage teeth.
What Not to Drink as Your First Cup of Water
1
Fruit and Vegetable Juice
Many people enjoy fruit and vegetable juice upon waking, believing it directly absorbs nutrients and cleanses the body.This is actually a misconception. The first thing you consume in the morning should ideally be warm. Additionally, forcing your digestive system to work on an empty stomach is detrimental to your health.Moreover, morning marks the first peak in blood pressure. Consuming salt water can elevate blood pressure further, posing particular risks for elderly individuals with hypertension.
3
Soft drinks like cola
Carbonated beverages such as soda and cola often contain citric acid. During metabolism, citric acid accelerates calcium excretion, reducing blood calcium levels. Long-term consumption may lead to calcium deficiency and nutritional imbalance.
4
Milk
While many enjoy milk, it shouldn't be your first drink in the morning. At this time, your digestive system is still in a resting state and cannot fully utilize the nutritional value of protein. Additionally, many people may experience symptoms like stomach pain and diarrhea.