Drinking 8 ounces of water first thing every morning is good for your overall health for several reasons. Doing something simple like drinking water can motivate you to make other good decisions for living a healthier lifestyle. Below are just 5 reasons why drinking water is so important for the body.

First, drinking water improves circulation. Water carries away toxins in your body and improves circulation to the areas of the body that need to be renewed with nutrients. This is a great reason to drink water before eating each morning.

Secondly, drinking water helps to prevent constipation. Washing your digestive system with water each morning will stimulate bowel activity. It also softens the contents of your bowels to make it easier for your body to eliminate waste. Be aware that in the older adult population drinking too much water when the bowel is already slow can cause problems due to water absorption instead of nutrient absorption.

Thirdly, drinking water can alleviate pain. First thing in the morning it is common to feel achy. Your body needs that drink of water to wake it up and get things moving. As it helps your muscles to relax and improves circulation to your nervous system you will feel the difference.

Fourth, drinking water can reduce the signs of aging. Your skin can accumulate toxins causing age spots. Dehydration is also a cause for uneven or rough skin appearances. Getting off to a good start by drinking water every morning will give you the best chance of maintaining hydration and you will stay younger looking.

Lastly, drinking water can help with weight loss. Drinking water before breakfast, or any meal for that matter, gives you a fuller feeling therefore causing you to eat less and fires up your metabolism. Also, adding lemon to your water can help because lemon contains pectin fiber that decreases food cravings. Adding both can improve your ability to curb your appetite.

If you are not a breakfast eater or if you are a coffee drinker… consider doing this one small thing to improve your health. A glass of water a day, first thing in the morning. Smile as you do it because you are doing something great. Relax as you do it and feel the benefits all day long.