Drinking water during or right after a meal weakens the digestive juices and stops food from digesting properly.

fact_checkWhat experts say

• infoWater drunk with a meal does not stop food from being digested.123
• infoThe body makes far more digestive fluid than the water you drink. About 8 litres of fluid passes through the gut every day.3
• infoWater taken as a drink leaves the stomach quickly, so it does not sit on top of the food and block digestion.1
• infoWater helps the body get rid of waste through urine, sweat and stool, and helps the body work normally.2

lightbulbWhy people believe it

This belief is old and has been passed down for generations. It sounds believable because stomach juices look watery, so it feels like more water would make them weak. But the body keeps making these juices, and water moves on quickly.

checklistWhat to do

• check_circleKeep drinking water through the day. It is fine to drink it with your meals too.2
• check_circleServe water during meals at home, and pick water instead of sugary drinks.2
• check_circleDrink more water in hot weather, when you are active, and when you have fever, loose motions or vomiting.2
• check_circleFruits and vegetables with a lot of water in them also add to your daily water.2

menu_bookSources

1. 1Weighing the Evidence of Common Beliefs in Obesity Researchnih.govopen_in_new
2. 2About Water and Healthier Drinkscdc.govopen_in_new
3. 3Water, Hydration and Healthnih.govopen_in_new

Updated 12 Oct 2026