It’s common knowledge that drinking eight glasses of water a day is essential for the body to function properly. However, do you know what is the optimal time to drink water?

Read on to find out what are the top times in the day to drink water in order to maximise its effectiveness on your body.

Drink water at these times

1) After waking up​

Drink one glass of water after waking up to help activate your internal organs. The water will help to remove any toxins before your first meal of the day.

2) Before a meal

Drink one glass of water 30 minutes before a meal to help digestion. Remember not to drink too soon before or after a meal as the water will dilute the digestive juices. Drink water an hour after the meal to allow the body to absorb the nutrients.

3) Before a bath

Drink one glass of water before taking a bath to help lower your blood pressure.

4) Before sleep

Drink one glass of water an hour before bedtime to replenish any fluid loss that can occur during the night.

Have difficulty drinking 8 cups of water daily? Try a water drinking schedule

Below is a schedule you can try for drinking water if you have difficulty finding time to drink water. It's okay if your water schedule differs depending on your daily commitments, the important thing is to have at least eight glasses of water daily!

7:00 – 1st Glass

Drink your first glass of water after you wake up to hydrate your body after a long night’s rest. Take your breakfast at least half an hour after the first glass.

9:00 – 2nd Glass

It’s approximately 1 hour after your breakfast; have a glass of water and start your work day.

11:30 – 3rd Glass

Have a glass of water 30 minutes before lunch.

13:30 – 4th Glass

Drink a glass of water an hour after lunch to allow the nutrients from the food to be better absorbed by your body.

15:00 – 5th Glass

​During your tea break, have a non-sweetened drink (water!) to freshen your mind.

​17:00 – 6th Glass

​This glass of water will keep you satiated and prevent overeating during dinner.

20:00 – 7th Glass

​Have a glass of water an hour after dinner and before you shower.

22:00 – 8th Glass

Drink your last glass of water an hour before bedtime to aid in the cell renewal process during your sleep.

Ref: S13

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