Should you drink water before or after meals? This is the best time to drink water

Water is the elixir of life. This simple drink provides our bodies with essential hydration while flushing out unwanted toxins. Regular water consumption is vital for all bodily functions and general well-being. Even our skin and hair require a constant intake of water to retain their shine and shine. Many of us start the day with a glass of water and this is considered good practice. However, to meet the daily requirement, we need to keep drinking water at intervals. And a question that often arises is: when is the right time to drink water, before, during or after meals? The answer is not very simple. Here’s what the experts have to say:

Should you drink water before meals?

_{Too much water can hinder digestion. Photo credit: Pixabay}

Some of us are in the habit of drinking water just before our lunch or dinner. Maybe we are thirsty or maybe we think that doing it will clear our palate/system. However, this practice could affect both digestion and nutrient absorption. According to nutritionist Dr. Anju Sood, “There is a certain ratio of fluids to solids in our gastric system. If you consume water before meals, you not only alter the liquid component by diluting what you eat, but you also speed up the digestion process.” … as food now enters the large intestine much sooner than it should.” Instead of drinking a full glass of water immediately before a meal, leave a 20-30 minute gap in between.
Also read: Can fruit juice harm your health? Avoid it in these 5 cases

Is it okay to drink water during meals?

_{Water glasses are often kept on the tables. Photo credit: Pixabay}

Now, it is quite common for many people to drink water along with their meals. Most restaurants also make sure that water glasses are kept full during a meal. However, according to some experts, you should avoid drinking too much water with meals. Water can dilute the essential enzymes that are required for the proper digestion of food. Dr Anju says, “Some people who drink water along with meals have also shown a tendency to have an enlarged colon.” However, this mainly applies to drinking a lot of water during a meal. There is nothing wrong with drinking a little.

Avoid fizzy drinks which can worsen bloating and indigestion. Drink plain or infused water with a bit of lemon, mint, and/or ginger. This should be at room temperature or slightly warm, but never cold. Macrobiotic nutritionist and health coach Shilpa Arora states that icy or cold water “reduces energy and weakens the kidneys. Never drink cold water with meals, as this will solidify all the oily stuff you’ve consumed. Pretty soon, this will turn into fat and sludge in the body, creating imbalance.”
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Should you drink water after meals?

_{Ice cold water is not very good for your system. Photo Credit: Pixabay}

Does this mean that we should drink water after eating all our food? Most experts advise against doing so. Water can hinder the digestion process that is underway. This can also affect your insulin levels, as glucose from undigested food turns into fat, which can affect blood sugar levels. According to nutritionist Shilpa Arora, “Our body produces enzymes and gastric, pancreatic and other chemical juices that digest food. Drinking water closer to meals would dilute these enzymes and digestive juices, leading to indigestion and improper nutrient utilization.” “. Maybe I can take a sip or two of water after I’m done. But don’t drink the whole glass.

Certain cultures have the custom of drinking warm water after meals. As mentioned above, the water you drink should not be too cold. In small amounts, drinking warm water after meals can be good for the intestine. This is traditionally based on Ayurvedic teachings. You can read more about this here.

Another question that people often ask is to drink water after eating fruits. There are many misconceptions on this topic. Click here to find out what the experts suggest.
Also read: 5 Breakfast Foods You Should Stop Eating Now & What To Eat Instead

Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.