What is the best thing to drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach?

October 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Manipal Hospitals, your body is naturally dehydrated after a night of sleep, making what you consume first in the morning on an empty stomach crucial for rehydration and kick-starting your metabolism. The best thing to drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach depends on your personal health goals, but simple water remains a universal and highly effective choice.

Quick Summary

This article explores the top beverages recommended by nutritionists and health experts for consumption on an empty stomach, detailing their specific benefits for hydration, digestion, and metabolism. It compares popular options like water, lemon water, and herbal teas, providing guidance on how to choose the right morning drink for your wellness needs.

Key Points

Plain Water: Drinking water, especially warm, on an empty stomach is the most basic and effective way to rehydrate and boost metabolism.
Lemon Water: Adding fresh lemon to warm water provides a potent dose of vitamin C and stimulates digestive enzymes.
Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic: Diluted ACV can promote gut health, balance blood sugar, and potentially aid in weight management, but should be consumed cautiously to protect tooth enamel.
Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea is excellent for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe a sensitive or upset stomach.
Listen to Your Body: Individuals with acid reflux or specific sensitivities should be mindful of acidic drinks and opt for gentler alternatives like water or herbal tea.
Consistency is Key: While the morning drink provides a great start, consistent hydration throughout the entire day is crucial for maximizing health benefits.

Why Your Morning Drink Matters

After an overnight fast, your body is in a state of mild dehydration and your stomach is empty, making it an optimal time for nutrient absorption. The first thing you drink can influence your hydration status, metabolism, and digestive health for the entire day. Choosing a hydrating, low-calorie beverage can help flush toxins, boost energy, and prepare your digestive system for the day's meals.

The Top Contenders for the Best Morning Drink

1. Water (Warm or Room Temperature)

Water is arguably the simplest and most effective morning beverage. After hours without fluids, a glass of water rehydrates your body and helps cleanse your internal systems.

Flushing Toxins: Hydration is vital for flushing waste and toxins from your body via the kidneys.
Boosting Metabolism: Studies have shown that drinking water can temporarily increase your metabolic rate.
Improving Digestion: It can also help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.

2. Warm Lemon Water

A popular variation of plain water, warm lemon water adds a dose of vitamin C and a refreshing flavor.

Immune Support: The vitamin C in lemons provides antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
Digestive Aid: Citric acid helps stimulate digestive enzymes and bile production, which can aid in digestion and reduce bloating.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Tonic

For those who can tolerate its potent taste, a diluted ACV tonic offers a range of benefits.

Gut Health: ACV contains beneficial bacteria that can support a healthy gut microbiome.
Appetite Control: Some studies suggest that consuming ACV before meals may help suppress appetite and manage blood sugar levels.
How to Prepare: Always dilute ACV by mixing 1-2 tablespoons with a glass of water to protect your tooth enamel and avoid esophageal irritation.

4. Ginger Tea

Ginger has long been used for its medicinal properties, and a warm cup of ginger tea is a comforting and digestive-friendly option.

Anti-inflammatory: Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe an upset stomach and reduce nausea.
Digestive Boost: It helps stimulate digestive enzymes, making it easier to break down food later in the day.

5. Aloe Vera Juice

Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera juice can be beneficial for those with sensitive stomachs or inflammatory bowel conditions.

Soothes the Gut: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and soothe the digestive tract.
Promotes Regularity: It can also help with bowel regularity.

Choosing the Right Morning Drink for You

Comparison Table: Morning Drink Options


Feature	Plain Water	Warm Lemon Water	Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic	Ginger Tea
Primary Benefit	Hydration, Metabolism	Vitamin C, Digestion	Gut Health, Appetite Control	Anti-inflammatory, Soothing
Taste Profile	Neutral	Tart	Sharp, Sour	Spicy, Earthy
Calorie Count	0	Very Low (~11 calories)	Very Low (depends on added sweetener)	0
Best For	General hydration, cleansing	Immune support, digestive kickstart	Weight management, gut health	Soothing sensitive stomach, nausea
Considerations	Can be bland	Potential enamel erosion over time	Must be diluted, strong taste	May not suit all palates

Potential Issues and Things to Consider

While most morning drinks are beneficial, it's important to be mindful of your body's specific needs. For instance, individuals with acid reflux may find that lemon water or ACV exacerbates their symptoms due to the high acidity. In such cases, plain warm water or ginger tea might be better choices. It is always recommended to listen to your body and introduce new drinks gradually. Additionally, while morning hydration is a great start, consistent fluid intake throughout the day is key to staying properly hydrated.

Conclusion: Your Body, Your Best Answer

Ultimately, there is no single best thing to drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach that fits everyone perfectly. Plain water is the simplest, most effective, and universally beneficial option for rehydration and metabolism. However, depending on your health goals, adding a slice of lemon, a splash of ACV, or a bag of ginger tea can amplify the benefits. By understanding your specific needs and listening to your body, you can create a personalized and highly effective morning routine that sets you up for a healthier day.

Visit Healthline for more detailed information on a variety of morning drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

Warm or room temperature water is generally recommended as it is gentle on the digestive system and can help stimulate metabolism. Some studies suggest cold water might have a slightly higher metabolic-boosting effect, but warm water is often preferred for overall comfort and digestion.

Coffee can increase acidity in the stomach, which might be irritating for those with a sensitive stomach or acid reflux. It is often advised to consume coffee after having a glass of water or delaying it until after breakfast.

A common recommendation is to mix the juice of half a fresh lemon with 8 ounces of warm or room temperature water. It's best to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts and to protect your tooth enamel.

Most fruit juices are high in sugar and low in fiber, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar when consumed on an empty stomach. It is generally recommended to avoid concentrated juices and opt for whole fruits or vegetable-based juices instead.

Water is one of the best for weight loss, as it contains no calories and boosts metabolism. Drinking a glass of water before a meal can also help increase feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake.

No, drinking water on an empty stomach is generally safe and highly beneficial for rehydration and detoxifying the body. However, consuming excessive amounts too quickly can cause stomach discomfort or nausea in some individuals.

For those with sensitive stomachs or IBS, soothing options like ginger tea or aloe vera juice can help reduce inflammation and calm the digestive tract. It's best to avoid highly acidic beverages like ACV or excessive lemon juice.