This is what happens if you guzzle water after having desserts
Water supports digestion by helping produce saliva, and most importantly, it mixes with digestive enzymes to break down food
Most meals feel incomplete if they do not end on a sweet note. However, sugary cravings, if left unchecked, can cause long-term damage to gut health.
So, when we came across a social media video suggesting viewers guzzle water after eating anything sweet to reduce its negative impact on the body, we wanted to learn more and reached out to an expert for some clarification.
Is there any truth to this claim?
Meenu Balaji, chief nutritionist at Pragmatic Nutrition, Chennai, told indianexpress.com that chugging down water after eating sweets does not really reduce the impact of sugar on gut health, but it certainly helps in other ways. “It may help prevent blood sugar spikes since poor water intake can cause dehydration. In a dehydrated state, the blood sugar spikes can be higher,” she said.
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She added that water supports digestion by helping produce saliva, and most importantly, it mixes with digestive enzymes to break down food. This helps with chewing and swallowing food and regularises bowel movements. “It can also help reduce dental caries, as drinking water after a meal clears out any leftover food particles. The bacteria in the mouth thrive on sugar. Hence, drinking water may reduce the risk of developing dental caries,” she told indianexpress.com.
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How can sweets be eaten to minimise their impact on gut health?
Balaji shared three valuable tips to keep in mind to make indulging in desserts a healthier affair:
1. Pair sweets with healthy fats, fiber or protein: Eating sugar with these nutrients will reduce the glycemic index. You can eat sweets with a handful of nuts or a teaspoon of roasted sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
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2. Use healthier alternatives: If you have gut health issues, avoid white sugar. Instead, sweeten the food with fruits like mashed banana, apple sauce, or dates. You can also try brown sugar or jaggery in lesser quantities.
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3. Practice portion control: Eating excess sugar can wreak havoc on your gut health, by increasing inflammation. Therefore, manage your portion sizes accordingly.