Does Drinking Water In The Middle Of Meal Affect Digestion? Expert Weighs In

Experts suggest that drinking water the wrong way during meals can lead to several health issues. Consuming too much water while eating or immediately after a meal weakens stomach acid and digestive enzymes, hindering proper digestion. To avoid disrupting the digestive process, it’s crucial to drink only small amounts of water during meals.

Thirst is not always a reliable indicator of hydration, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day. Overhydration during meals can disturb the balance of electrolytes in the body, leading to headaches and nausea. Maintaining a balance of electrolytes is key to avoiding these issues and drinking water slowly allows the body to absorb it more efficiently.

Like dehydration, overhydration can also be harmful. According to the MedicineNet website, drinking too much water while eating can decrease appetite and cause insulin spikes, similar to the effects of high glycemic foods. These insulin spikes may result in elevated blood sugar levels. Additionally, the feeling of fullness from drinking excess water may lead to acidity or worsen chronic acid reflux.

Drinking cold water during meals can also slow down digestive enzymes by solidifying fats, which may result in abdominal cramps. Ayurvedic doctor Dr Prabhat Kumar from the District Joint Pharmacy at Sadar Hospital, Koderma, explains that the stomach’s “gastric fire” increases while eating, aiding in digestion. Drinking water during or immediately after a meal reduces this gastric fire, leading to improper digestion, loss of appetite and indigestion.

Dr Kumar recommends drinking a glass of water half an hour before a meal and limiting water intake to no more than half a glass, twice, while eating. Drinking room temperature or warm water is preferable, as it supports better digestion. He stresses that drinking water the wrong way during meals can harm digestion and appetite. Maintaining proper hydration habits and consuming the right amount of food is essential for overall health.