Drinking lukewarm water in the morning is a well-being habit regularly practiced by some celebrities. Intrigued by this trend, Sam Hopes, a fitness editor for Tom’s Guide and sports coach, decided to test it for two weeks to assess its effects.
This practice originates from traditional Chinese medicine. It is based on the idea that lukewarm water, consumed in the morning, gently “awakens” the body. It is often associated with potential benefits such as improved digestion, smoother bowel movements, or a general sense of balance.
According to Sam Hopes, this routine primarily promotes hydration upon waking up, provides a warm sensation, and can create a calm moment conducive to mindfulness. Easy to implement, it easily fits into a morning routine.
Physiological effects still uncertain
From a scientific point of view, the evidence remains limited. The hypothesis suggested is that lukewarm water could relax the digestive system, stimulate peristalsis, and improve blood circulation to the intestines. However, as Sam Hopes points out, the available studies are few and do not clearly confirm these effects.
“Thus, even if it may give a boost to the digestive system in the morning, it is important to continue drinking water throughout the day for optimal hydration, regardless of its temperature,” she reminds.
An experience with nuanced results
For 14 days, Sam Hopes drank a glass of lukewarm, plain water every morning to not skew the observations. “I don’t feel any benefit for now,” she writes, specifying that neither her bowel movements nor digestion have been altered.
Moreover, this habit had no effect on her energy level or appetite. She actually kept her morning coffee, which she considers essential.
“In the end, it didn’t change anything about my appetite, digestion, or bowel movements, but it had a positive effect on my mood, and that’s already something. I enjoyed experimenting, but for now, I prefer my morning coffee,” she concludes.
