Lemon-honey water and coconut water on empty stomach: Dr S K Sarin on what works

Drinking lukewarm water, lemon-honey water or coconut water first thing in the morning is a daily habit for many people. Many believe these habits detoxify the body and help with weight loss. Noted gastroenterologist Dr S K Sarin addressed these beliefs at the Times Network India Health Summit & Awards 2026 and cleared up several misconceptions.

The first question was about drinking warm water to clear the bowels. Many people drink lukewarm or warm water on waking with this aim. According to Dr Sarin, this approach is entirely wrong. He said that clearing the bowels depends on the body's internal processes and on the relationship between the brain and the gut. Water has no direct or immediate effect on the body or the stomach, he said.

According to Dr Sarin, it is necessary first to visit the toilet and freshen up naturally, and to drink water afterwards. He said wrong habits can lead to problems such as constipation later on.

On lemon and honey, Dr Sarin said they have several health benefits, but the timing of taking them matters a great deal. According to him, if lemon water is taken with a meal rather than on an empty stomach, the body's capacity to absorb iron rises by 10 to 20 per cent.

On honey, Dr Sarin said it contains antibodies, which are considered good for gut health. But honey also contains fructose. So when honey is taken, it is very important to burn off those calories through physical work or exercise, otherwise weight gain is very likely, he said.

On coconut water, Dr Sarin said drinking it on an empty stomach every morning has become a fashion these days. According to him, coconut water is rich in potassium and other nutrients, yet there is no need to drink it daily.

Dr Sarin said the body's main and natural need is only clean water. If someone eats a healthy, balanced diet, there is no need to drink coconut water every day, he said.