For many,
gulping a glass or a bottle of water or other drinks while having food is
shared. Some avoid drinking while eating food, while others have the habit of
consuming. There are many myths associated with this.
Researchers
are providing conflicting reports on this, such as whether one should have
water during a heavy meal or after a meal.
Dehydration
is common among many Indians, especially during the summer months. Water
consumed at regular intervals helps to overcome dehydration.
However,
the question remains whether it is a good idea to consume water while eating.
The
benefits and drawbacks
Some
experts believe that it is good to drink water while eating. According to many,
drinking water helps to break down food and allows it to move through the
digestive tract.
There are
also some drawback theories associated with it. Drinking water while eating
leads to acidity. The water helps dilute the gastric juices, leading to a slow
digestion process. A feeling of reflux and heartburn sets in.
Some
claim that an individual may gain weight. This is because the body is not able
to digest the food, helping it convert it to fat.
Drinking
water 30 minutes after a meal is also suggested. It avoids discomfort in the
stomach and bloating. Besides acidity, water intake may compromise digestion.
Research
says
Research
suggests that there is no concrete evidence of water interfering with
digestion. However, people with gastroesophageal reflux disease are prone to
aggravate the situation.
Instead
of water, consuming sugary drinks while eating may lead to weight gain.
Bottomline
A body’s
digestive system works from birth on eating and drinking patterns. Many
families follow the old custom of sitting with a jug of water while having
meals, which has been followed for ages. Some abstain from keeping a water jug
while eating.
Some find
it unacceptable, while others find it okay to continue with the habit. Drinking
water during a meal may interfere with the urge to eat. The end result is
depriving the hunger and filling the stomach with water or other drinks.
This is
an ongoing debate and various research studies still need to be conducted to
determine which side is right.
Concrete evidence should be in place before we can come to a conclusion about what is right or wrong.
