Avoid aerated beverages that may worsen bloating and indigestion. Drink water plain or infused with a little lemon, mint and/or ginger. This should be at room temperature or slightly warm – but never chilled. Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Coach, Shilpa Arora states that chilled or cold water “dampens one’s energy and weakens the kidneys. Never drink cold water with meals as this will solidify all the oily stuff that you have consumed. Very soon, this will turn into fat and sludge in the body, creating imbalance.”
“Drinking water at the right time can promote satiety, metabolism, ease in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Does this mean we should drink water after eating all our food? Most experts advise against doing so. Water can hinder the digestion process that is underway. This can also affect your insulin levels as the glucose from undigested food is converted into fat, which can then affect blood sugar levels. According to nutritionist Shilpa Arora, “Our body produces enzymes and gastric juices, pancreatic and other chemical juices that digest food. Drinking water closer to meals would dilute these digestive enzymes and juices leading to indigestion and improper utilisation of nutrients.” You can perhaps take a sip or two of water after you’re done. But don’t gulp down the entire glass.
Certain cultures have the habit of drinking warm water after meals. As mentioned earlier, the water you sip on must not be too cold. In small quantities, drinking warm water after meals may be good for your gut. This is traditionally based on Ayurvedic teachings. You can read more about it here.
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