QuickCheck: Is drinking water during meals unhealthy?

IN THE realm of dining habits, few debates generate as much curiosity as whether sipping water during meals is beneficial or detrimental. Does this common practice disrupt digestion, or is it merely another culinary myth waiting to be debunked? Could drinking water while eating actually be bad for you? Verdict: FALSE The belief that drinking water during meals is harmful to digestion is not supported by scientific evidence. Numerous studies and experts agree that water is indeed beneficial for the digestive process.

According to Sahil Khanna from Mayo Clinic, water assists in breaking down food, facilitating nutrient absorption and is integral to bodily fluids such as saliva and stomach acid. Water, he says, also helps prevent constipation by softening stool. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition investigated the impact of drinking water with meals on hunger and satiety.



It found that while drinking water can influence feelings of fullness during the meal, this effect does not persist long after eating. The study suggests that water can be a useful tool for managing hunger without negatively impacting digestion. Additional research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association indicates that consuming water before meals can significantly reduce energy intake, particularly among older adults, making it a potential strategy for weight management.

The myth that drinking water during meals causes digestive issues, such as bloating or interference with nutrient absorption, has been debunked by several experts. Michael Picco, a gastroenterology consultant at Mayo Clinic, states that water does not dilute digestive juices. Furthermore, Maria Moore, a dietitian, told America Today that the stomach was more than capable of adapting its acidic environment to accommodate meals, including water intake.

In summary, water aids digestion, helps manage hunger, and supports weight management. So, feel free to enjoy a glass of water with your meal without worry. References: 1.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/ healthy-lifestyle/nutrition- and-healthy-eating/expert- answers/digestion/faq-20058348 2.

https://www.usatoday.com/ story/news/factcheck/2020/08/ 19/fact-check-drinking-water- while-eating-doesnt-cause- digestive-issues/3375622001/ 3.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.

nih.gov/ articles/PMC2743119/ 4. https://pubmed.

ncbi.nlm.nih.

gov/8287852/.