People should drink a glass of water before having their morning coffee to restore fluids lost overnight and support digestion, according to gastroenterologist Lisa Ganjhu.
Writing for health publication Verywell Health, Ganjhu explained that a 12-hour period without water can impair a person's ability to assess situations and make decisions.
Starting the morning with water helps the gastrointestinal tract function effectively by encouraging the movement of food through the digestive system. Ganjhu noted that warm water in particular stimulates the bowel, helping it become active early in the day. Separate research indicates that drinking warm water before meals further assists digestive processing.
Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine focused on the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, and surrounding organs. Digestion relies on consistent hydration to break down food and move nutrients smoothly through the digestive tract.
Managing stomach acid and caffeine
Drinking water prior to coffee can also lessen unpleasant feelings triggered by the acidity of the beverage. Ganjhu pointed out that every individual reacts differently to coffee, with some people easily drinking it on an empty stomach while others experience heartburn, acid reflux, or general stomach discomfort.
Acid reflux occurs when digestive acids flow upward from the stomach into the esophagus, causing discomfort and burning sensations. Coffee naturally contains caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant, along with organic acids that can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Despite coffee containing caffeine, moderate consumption does not automatically lead to significant dehydration. Nutritionist Ethan Balk stated that consuming between one and three cups of coffee a day represents a moderate intake for most adults, meaning people do not usually need to drink an extra glass of water to offset every cup of coffee.
Daily hydration guidelines
General dietary recommendations from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggest that women should consume 11.5 cups of water daily, while men require 15.5 cups. The organization notes that consistent fluid intake throughout the day maintains overall physical well-being, concentration, and digestive system performance.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is an organization of credentialed food and nutrition professionals that publishes evidence-based dietary recommendations for public health guidance.
For individuals who wake up feeling sluggish, medical experts advise drinking a glass of water first, followed by coffee, to observe whether energy and comfort levels improve. The guidance forms part of broader health research, which also indicates that adults over 50 need between 1.2 and 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to retain mobility for daily tasks, while eating accessible brain-healthy foods supports cognitive function.
