You’ve likely heard this from your grandparents or even a health nut friend: Don’t drink water immediately after eating, or you’ll gain weight. It’s one of those decades-old health myths. But is there actually any science to back it up, or is it one of those fear-based concepts that we’ve all had without questioning?
Let’s get into the facts. And no, we’re not here to scare you just to clear the fog with science and ancient wisdom.
Is This Just Another Old Myth
We all tend to avoid drinking water with food believing it ruins our weight. Particularly those aiming at weight loss, they go an extra mile to do away with the practice believing it is undermining their action. But do you know what actually happens, drinking water immediately after eating really makes you gain weight? Indeed, it does not. Well, not quite anyway.
What Modern Science Really Think
Water doesn’t have any calories. In short, it can’t increase weight directly. But there’s a catch. If you take lots of water after eating, it actually hampers digestion. Here’s why your body secretes digestive juices to digest your food. But if you take excess water immediately after meals, those juices get diluted. That slows down digestion, keeping you full or bloated.
That nasty heavy feeling like one confuses it for fat gain. But in reality, it is just poor digestion and not a buildup of calories.
Ayurveda’s View on This Habit
Now, let’s see about what Ayurveda has to say. In accordance with this ancient health system, consuming water particularly in large quantities immediately after mealtime reduces your digestive fire. As soon as it decreases, your body will not digest food in the right manner. That is what may build up toxins and hinder your gut.
Rather than cold or plain water, Ayurveda suggests cumin water or warm water after meals. Both of these have been shown to aid digestion without overloading your system.
Experts Reveal the Best Way
So, what exactly do health workers recommend? Don’t gulp water immediately after meals. Allow your stomach to work for a minimum of 30 minutes. If you do need to drink, just drink only a couple of sips, though.
For those who are on a diet, here’s an additional tip: drink a whole glass of water approximately 30 minutes before consuming food. It acts as an appetite suppressant and maintains digestion.
It’s not about establishing rules, just about making better timing.