Doctor's 'simple' morning habit makes huge difference to 'kickstarting metabolism'

NHS doctor Amir Khan, who regularly appears on ITV's Lorraine and Good Morning Britain, has shared the simple morning habit he's adopted which makes a huge difference to how he feels during the day. The GP, ho has been doing the "new habit" for a few weeks, wanted to share it as it's had a number of benefits, including making him feel more refreshed.

Taking to his @doctoramirkhan TikTok account, the doctor shared: "You know what I've started doing every morning? Before I even have my first cup of coffee, I drink a full glass of water. Simple, I know, but let me tell you why this tiny habit has made a big difference to how I feel."

Dr Khan went on to explain that if you wake up and have gone for around seven or eight hours without any liquid, you'll be "slightly dehydrated, even if you don't feel thirsty". He added: "That's a little bit of dehydration and that can make you feel sluggish, foggy headed, and even a bit irritable, before the day has even begun."

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However, if you have a glass of water first thing in the morning, Dr Khan says it "kickstarts your metabolism", helps "flush out toxins and waste products your body has been working to process overnight" and it also "gives your kidneys and liver a little morning boost".

Dr Khan continued: "And really important for me, it hydrates your brain - improving focus, memory and mood. Even mild dehydration can affect concentration. It helps your digestion too. Your stomach and intestines need water to work efficiently, especially if you're having a high fibre breakfast, which we should all be having."

In addition, drinking water can also help with your skin. Dr Khan said: "Hydration from the inside helps maintain elasticity and glow." Now this has become a daily ritual for Dr Khan, who keeps a full glass of water by his bedside so when he wakes up he knows he has to drink it.

According to the Eatwell Guide, the government recommends you should aim to drink six to eight cups or glasses of fluid a day. This includes water, lower-fat milk and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee.

You should also limit fruit juice and smoothies to a maximum of one small glass (150ml) a day, as they are high in sugar. You should also drink extra fluids if you've been sweating from exercise, or if you're unwell.