Water is the elixir of life. This straightforward drink gives our physique with important hydration whereas flushing out undesirable toxins. Common consumption of water is important for all physique capabilities and total well-being. Even our pores and skin and hair require a constant water consumption to retain their shine and glow. Many people begin the day with a glass of water and that is extensively thought of to be follow. Nevertheless, to fulfill the day by day requirement, we now have to maintain ingesting water at intervals. And a query that always comes up is: when is the proper time to drink water – earlier than, throughout or after meals? The reply shouldn’t be very simple. Here is what consultants must say:
Ought to You Drink Water Earlier than Meals?

An excessive amount of water could hinder digestion. Photograph Credit score: Pixabay
A few of us have the behavior of ingesting water simply earlier than our lunch or dinner. Possibly we’re thirsty or possibly we expect that doing so will clear our palate/system. Nevertheless, this follow may have an effect on digestion in addition to nutrient absorption. In response to nutritionist Dr Anju Sood, “There’s a sure fluid-solid proportion in our gastric system. In case you eat water earlier than the meals, you aren’t solely disturbing the fluid part by diluting what you eat, you might be additionally fastening the digestion course of because the meals now enters the big gut a lot ahead of it ought to.” Moderately than ingesting a complete glass of water instantly earlier than a meal, go away a 20-30 minute hole in between.
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Is It Okay To Drink Water Throughout Meals?

Water glasses are sometimes saved at tables. Photograph Credit score: Pixabay
Now, it’s fairly widespread for many individuals to have water alongside their meals. Most eating places additionally make sure that water glasses are saved stuffed throughout a meal. Nevertheless, in line with some consultants, ingesting an excessive amount of water with meals must be averted. Water can dilute important enzymes which might be required for the right digestion of meals. Dr Anju says, “Some individuals who drink water alongside meals have additionally proven a bent to have an expanded colon.” Nevertheless, this primarily applies to ingesting a lot of water throughout a meal. There isn’t any hurt in sipping a bit.
Keep away from aerated drinks that will worsen bloating and indigestion. Drink water plain or infused with a bit lemon, mint and/or ginger. This must be at room temperature or barely heat – however by no means chilled. Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Well being Coach, Shilpa Arora states that chilled or chilly water “dampens one’s vitality and weakens the kidneys. By no means drink chilly water with meals as this can solidify all of the oily stuff that you’ve got consumed. Very quickly, this can flip into fats and sludge within the physique, creating imbalance.”
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Ought to You Drink Water After Meals?

Chilled water shouldn’t be superb in your system. Photograph Credit score: Pixabay
Does this imply we must always drink water after consuming all our meals? Most consultants advise in opposition to doing so. Water can hinder the digestion course of that’s underway. This could additionally have an effect on your insulin ranges because the glucose from undigested meals is transformed into fats, which may then have an effect on blood sugar ranges. In response to nutritionist Shilpa Arora, “Our physique produces enzymes and gastric juices, pancreatic and different chemical juices that digest meals. Consuming water nearer to meals would dilute these digestive enzymes and juices resulting in indigestion and improper utilisation of vitamins.” You may maybe take a sip or two of water after you are executed. However do not gulp down the complete glass.
Sure cultures have the behavior of ingesting heat water after meals. As talked about earlier, the water you sip on should not be too chilly. In small portions, ingesting heat water after meals could also be good in your intestine. That is historically based mostly on Ayurvedic teachings. You may learn extra about it right here.
One other query folks typically surprise about is ingesting water after consuming fruits. There are lots of misconceptions about this subject. Click on right here to know what consultants counsel.
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Disclaimer: This content material together with recommendation gives generic info solely. It’s under no circumstances an alternative to a certified medical opinion. All the time seek the advice of a specialist or your individual physician for extra info. NDTV doesn’t declare accountability for this info.