There's no concern that water thins down or weakens down (dilute) the digestive juices or interfere with digestion. In fact, drinking water during or after a meal helps how your body breaks down and processes food (digestion).
Water is vital for good health. Water and other drinks help break down food so that your body can take in (absorb) the nutrients. Water also makes stool softer, which helps prevent constipation. Choose water when possible instead of drinks full of sugar.
Looking for other ways to promote good digestion? Live a healthy life. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also include low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt and other dairy products and lean meats. Keep a healthy weight. Get active most days of the week.
Show References
- Perrier ET. Shifting focus: From hydration for performance to hydration for health. Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism. 2017; doi:10.1159/000462996.
- Make better beverage choices. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/tip-sheet/make-better-beverage-choices. Accessed April 6, 2022.
- Water and healthier drinks. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html. Accessed April 6, 2022.
- 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov. Accessed April 6, 2022.
- Picco MF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. April 25, 2022
- Duyff RL. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Complete Food and Nutrition Guide. 5th ed. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; 2017.
- Khanna S, ed. Recipe for healthy digestion. In: Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health. 4th ed. Mayo Clinic Press; 2020.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/digestion/faq-20058348