Conflicting Advice... help please....

kayadahn · February 2011

Ok... so I've been getting some conflicting advice... one side has stated their "benefits" the other has not; however, I want to try to get the full scoop before I decide what to do.

Do I drink lots of water while eating or not. Those who advocate drinking while eating suggest that it will help you feel full sooner, preventing you from over eating. We all know that it takes a while for the stomach to signal the brain it's full, so if you eat slower (by drinking a small gulp of ice water between every couple of bites) you are more likely to know you are full before you are actually OVERfull.

Those who advocate for NOT DRINKING ANYTHING while eating have never given me any reasons whatsoever, but they are so insistant I feel I need to at least find the facts behind this.

Thanks for anyone who has ideas!

ajbeans · February 2011

I don't have links, but I've read that it's best to drink a glass of water about 20 minutes before eating to aid in digestion, but that drinking during a meal can impede digestion. If you need something to drink while you eat, warm or hot drinks are best because super-cold drinks can slow down the digestive process.

Personally, I drink with a meal if I'm thirsty, or if it's spicy food. If I'm not thirsty, I don't drink. I haven't died yet. :laugh:

radicalreader · February 2011

There is plenty of anecdotal information out there, but this is what the Mayo Clinic says at their web site:
Question

Does drinking water during or after a meal disturb digestion?

Answer
from Michael Picco, M.D.
There's no concern that water will dilute the digestive juices or interfere with digestion. In fact, drinking water during or after a meal can actually improve digestion. Water and other liquids help break down the food in your stomach and keep your digestive system on track. Looking for other ways to promote good digestion? Focus on a healthy lifestyle. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight. Include physical activity in your daily routine.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/digestion/AN01776

susanswan · February 2011

I'd say if you are likely to be hungry before you know it is time to eat, then drink as much water as possible. 8 glasses per day is a lot if your aren't used to it. Yes, it should fill you up before and during meals. I've never heard a reason NOT to drink during a meal unless you had a stomach stapling, etc. My vote is to drink when you feel like it as long as you get your quota in.

stanvoodoo · February 2011

I do not drink while eating and it's made a big difference (improvement) for me.

jhardenbergh · February 2011

I have heard the same thing about not drinking cold beverages during or after eating. Drinking room temperature water would be fine.

ChefJenn · February 2011

i am no nutritionist and that is who SHOULD answer this question for you!
But I personally Do not eat and drink at the same time.
BUT... I had gastric bypass and my surgeon told all of us that it was not good to mix the two. ONE, our stomachs need just the food at one time and then to drink water 30 mins later. B/c when you mix the two you are more likely to get full by the water, and not feeding yourself enough, there for you will be hungry again sooner than your next meal time.
It makes sense to me. We need to get in the correct amount of calories a day & water but there is plenty of time to get both in by not mixing them.
that is just my two cents

ShelleyBowman · February 2011

It takes the brain & body 20 minutes to "know" that it is full. By drinking 8oz of water 20 minutes before you eat, your body will recognize the consumption. You will then likely not be as hungry and will eat smaller portions. Also, I've heard that sometimes your body sends hunger signals to your brain when sometimes, you are in fact simply thirsty. So if you "get hungry" in between meals, try water first.

kdao · February 2011

I always drink a big glass of water right before and right after I eat.

BigBoneSista · February 2011

Drinking with meals will fill you up faster so you won't be able to complete you meal. Now that is good if you are eating unhealthy, but if you are eating a healthy meal then your don't won't to be full off of water because that will pass through quickly. You want to be full off of protein. Eat first and drink 2nd. I wait normally 20 to 30 minutes before I drink something.

maserati185 · February 2011

It's my understanding that drinking cold water is good for speeding up metabolism, so I drink it before, during and after meals as I desire it. Sorry that's no help with info on why you SHOULDN'T drink it during meals. Water is the one thing that is MOST essential to life. I may be wrong, but why not drink it when you can?

kayadahn · February 2011

There is plenty of anecdotal information out there, but this is what the Mayo Clinic says at their web site:
Question

Does drinking water during or after a meal disturb digestion?

Answer
from Michael Picco, M.D.
There's no concern that water will dilute the digestive juices or interfere with digestion. In fact, drinking water during or after a meal can actually improve digestion. Water and other liquids help break down the food in your stomach and keep your digestive system on track. Looking for other ways to promote good digestion? Focus on a healthy lifestyle. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight. Include physical activity in your daily routine.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/digestion/AN01776

Thanks.... this is the type of thing I was hoping to hear! I try so hard to drink my daily water intake and don't do well AT ALL! However, I do tend to drink more while I'm eating, even without trying. Thanks to ALL who answered! MFP is such a great community.

Conflicting Advice... help please....

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