Water is important to our body. We all can definitely agree to that, but here's a question that many can't quite agree upon:
When is the best time to drink water, before or after eating?
Science, unfortunately, cannot give us a definitive answer because studies on when is the best time to drink water yield different results and offer differing opinions. So, instead of choosing between the before-eating camp and after-eating camp, let us take a look at the benefits of drinking water before and after a meal. Read on and be the judge.
Why drink water before each meal?
It helps reduce your calorie intake: A number of studies have shown that drinking water before meals will make you consume less calories during those meals. This is probably because the water will make you feel full, so you don't need to eat much food to reach the point of satiety. Not to mention, choosing water as your mealtime drink makes you avoid sugar and calorie-laden beverages such as sodas and juices.
It cleanses your internal system: Especially when taken before breakfast in the morning, water offers many health benefits for your body. It purges out toxins from your blood, gives your stomach and intestines a good cleansing, purifies your colon, and helps balance your lymph system. In addition, it helps activate your internal organs and kick start your metabolism, preparing them for the day ahead.
It rehydrates your dehydrated body: Your body is naturally dehydrated when you wake up after a long sleep. Thus, refilling the tank is necessary, and this should be done before you even eat your breakfast. Doing so will help you feel more refreshed and provide you natural energy throughout the morning.
Why drink water after each meal?
It aids in digestion: Some people will tell you that drinking water right after a meal will dilute your digestive juices or interfere with your digestion. Well, according to Dr. Michael F. Picco of Mayo Clinic, drinking water after each meal shouldn't be a cause of concern. This is because water actually aids in digestion. It helps digest food so that your body can easily absorb the nutrients.
And regarding the myth about cold water causing cancer or solidifying fats when drank after a meal, there is no scientific evidence to prove the rumor so far. In fact, the Columbia University Health Services and Mayo Clinic verified this myth as untrue. So, we say, drink your water whenever you feel the need to do so - be it before or after meals.
When is the best time to drink water, before or after eating?
Science, unfortunately, cannot give us a definitive answer because studies on when is the best time to drink water yield different results and offer differing opinions. So, instead of choosing between the before-eating camp and after-eating camp, let us take a look at the benefits of drinking water before and after a meal. Read on and be the judge.
Why drink water before each meal?
It helps reduce your calorie intake: A number of studies have shown that drinking water before meals will make you consume less calories during those meals. This is probably because the water will make you feel full, so you don't need to eat much food to reach the point of satiety. Not to mention, choosing water as your mealtime drink makes you avoid sugar and calorie-laden beverages such as sodas and juices.
It cleanses your internal system: Especially when taken before breakfast in the morning, water offers many health benefits for your body. It purges out toxins from your blood, gives your stomach and intestines a good cleansing, purifies your colon, and helps balance your lymph system. In addition, it helps activate your internal organs and kick start your metabolism, preparing them for the day ahead.
It rehydrates your dehydrated body: Your body is naturally dehydrated when you wake up after a long sleep. Thus, refilling the tank is necessary, and this should be done before you even eat your breakfast. Doing so will help you feel more refreshed and provide you natural energy throughout the morning.
Why drink water after each meal?
It aids in digestion: Some people will tell you that drinking water right after a meal will dilute your digestive juices or interfere with your digestion. Well, according to Dr. Michael F. Picco of Mayo Clinic, drinking water after each meal shouldn't be a cause of concern. This is because water actually aids in digestion. It helps digest food so that your body can easily absorb the nutrients.
And regarding the myth about cold water causing cancer or solidifying fats when drank after a meal, there is no scientific evidence to prove the rumor so far. In fact, the Columbia University Health Services and Mayo Clinic verified this myth as untrue. So, we say, drink your water whenever you feel the need to do so - be it before or after meals.