In fact, there is no reliable scientific evidence to suggest that drinking water before, during, or after meals harms the digestive system in healthy individuals, according to the health website Verywell Health (USA).
Sipping water while eating will help soften food and aid digestion.
PHOTO: Created by N. Quy from GM
The stomach and intestines have a very flexible regulatory mechanism. When food enters, the body automatically secretes stomach acid, digestive enzymes, and controls the rate of digestion. This regulation is compatible with the amount of food and liquid consumed. Therefore, the important thing is often not whether you drink before or after a meal, but how much you drink and how your body reacts.
Drinking water before meals can aid weight loss.
Drinking a glass of water before a meal can help rehydrate if you're thirsty, while also creating a feeling of fullness. This is especially helpful for people on a diet.
A study published in the journal Obesity showed that in a 12-week weight loss program, overweight individuals who drank about 500 ml of water before meals lost more weight than the group who did not drink water.
Does drinking water while eating dilute stomach acid?
Regarding drinking water during meals, some scientific evidence suggests that water may increase the pH level in the stomach. However, this effect is only short-lived, after which the stomach quickly adjusts and returns to its normal state.
In fact, taking small sips while eating helps soften food, aids in chewing and swallowing, and allows food to move more easily through the digestive system.
Drinking too much right after a meal can cause discomfort.
Although water doesn't directly harm digestion, drinking too much right after a meal can cause discomfort for some people. When the stomach is already full, consuming a large amount of water in a short period of time can increase feelings of fullness, bloating, or mild nausea.
Who should limit their water intake during meals?
Most healthy people don't need to worry too much about when to drink water. However, some groups may need to adjust this habit.
People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may experience worsening symptoms if they drink too much water during meals. This is because the pressure in the stomach increases. Those who have had stomach surgery may also feel full quickly or uncomfortable if they drink water while eating.
Additionally, people with heart disease, kidney disease, or those who need to control their fluid intake should follow their doctor's specific instructions, according to Verywell Health .