You may have heard that you shouldn't drink during a meal because, among the many myths, liquids can interfere with your digestive juices or they can cause stomach cramps. Not so, reports the Mayo Clinic. In fact, under most circumstances drinking during your meal is a healthy thing to do. Water is best.
Promotes Healthy Digestion
Downing some water during your meal can enhance digestion, says Dr. Michael F. Picco, writing for the Mayo Clinic. Water and other liquids break down the food in your stomach and keep your digestive system on track. Water also helps deliver oxygen throughout your body and assists in the creation of energy, which can be used in digestion. Moreover, water keeps your mouth, throat and lips hydrated, warding off problems like dry mouth and bad breath.
Makes You Fuller Faster
Drinking enough water during your meal can make you become fuller faster and reduce how many total calories you consume. Water can also naturally react with the fiber content of your food, causing it to swell. This process can activate receptors in your stomach and brain to let your body know you've had enough to eat. This also makes drinking water during your meals a healthy weight-control aid.
Freshens Your Mouth
Drinking during your meal can refresh and cleanse your palate between courses. It helps to wash out the particles of food as well as the lingering tastes from your meal. Many cultures make a habit of having a broth, stews or soups to sip from during meals for this very purpose.
Except When You're Not Feeling Well
MedlinePlus advises that you should only avoid drinking during meals when you're sick or getting treatment for a chronic illness that wipes out your appetite. The reason for this is that the natural benefits of drinking during meals become problematic at this time. When you're under the weather, you may not feel like eating, but that's just the time when you need to ensure you get the appropriate amount of calories. That way you'll help give your body strength to recover or weather treatment. Drinking during your meals will cut down on how many total calories you take in at a meal and be counterproductive to your healing. This is not to say you should drink less liquid. You need to stay hydrated, but you don't want to interfere with getting adequate nutrition and calories.
References
- “Eating Well”; Why Drink Water? 7 Health Shockers That Will Make You Grab Your Water Bottle; Brierley Wright; July 26, 2011
- Mayo Clinic; Does Drinking Water During or After a Meal Disturb Digestion?; Michael F. Picco
- "The Guardian"; Consumer Question of the Month; Jane Clarke; May 13, 2001
- “Nutrition Reviews”; Impact of Water Intake on Energy Intake and Weight Status: A Systematic Review; Melissa C Daniels and Barry M Popkin; Sept. 2010
- MedlinePlus: Eating Extra Calories When You Are Sick - Adults
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