UK doctor urges ditching five common morning habits

Dr. David Weinstein, a general practitioner with the National Health Service in Brighton, identified five morning routines that he advises people to drop. He cautions against drinking coffee immediately after waking, recommending a large glass of water first to re‑hydrate and reduce headache risk. He critiques ready‑made breakfast cereals for their high sugar content, suggesting Greek yoghurt with berries and nuts or oatmeal as healthier alternatives. Skipping breakfast, he warns, can lead to mid‑morning hunger and poor food choices. Checking a phone right after getting up is said to spike cortisol, increasing stress and anxiety; he advises keeping the phone out of the bedroom and waiting 15 minutes before using it. Finally, moving directly from bed to a desk or car without a short period of light movement is discouraged, with a brief stretch session recommended. Weinstein argues that changing these habits could lower the number of patients seeking medical help for related issues.

He emphasizes, "I would like everyone to start the day with a big glass of water. Fewer people would need to see me for headaches." and notes that a phone‑free morning helps keep cortisol levels in check.

The advice is aimed at the general public and reflects NHS concerns about lifestyle‑related health problems.