Hydration might seem as simple as drinking a glass of water, but experts say it’s not an instant process. According to health specialists, it can take up to 75–120 minutes for water to fully hydrate your body, depending on several factors - like your stomach’s fullness, the temperature of the water, and what you’ve eaten.

When you drink water, it passes through your digestive system before entering the bloodstream and finally reaching your cells. If you gulp down large amounts quickly, your body struggles to absorb it efficiently, and most of it is flushed out. Experts suggest that sipping small amounts of water throughout the day keeps you better hydrated than chugging a full bottle at once.

They also highlight that electrolytes - like sodium, potassium, and magnesium - play a crucial role in helping your body retain water. So, the best hydration routine involves balance: regular sips, nutrient-rich foods, and listening to your body’s thirst signals rather than overloading on fluids.