9 myths and truths about water consumption

The expert clarifies the main doubts about the consumption of liquids and its impacts on health

Water, this vital and essential liquid for the correct functioning of practically all systems of the body, plays a fundamental role in maintaining the health and well-being of the body. Constituting over 70% of the body’s composition, it is responsible for a series of physiological and metabolic processes, as well as being essential for the elimination of toxins and waste from the body, through the processes of perspiration and urinary excretion.

In seeking reliable information about hydration and its impact on health, it is essential to separate the myths from the truths. For this there is nothing better than listening to the opinion of experts on the subject. Irani Gomes dos Santos Souza, nutritionist and coordinator of the Nutrition course at the Faculdade Santa Marcelina, brings to light an analysis of the myths and truths related to water consumption. I wait!

1. Sparkling water is as fattening as soft drinks

Myth. Let’s first understand the difference between sparkling water and carbonated water. THE mineral water sparkling wine is naturally carbonated (with carbon dioxide). This water has a very delicate flavor. Carbonated water is mineral water that artificially receives carbon dioxide at the time of packaging. Regardless of the situation, there is no calorie intake that promotes weight gain, but be careful, as carbonated water is not considered a natural food.

2. Drinking a lot of water during a meal disturbs digestion

REAL. Consuming liquids during a meal, which includes water, disrupts the digestive process due to the dilution of hydrochloric acid (the enzyme responsible for digesting food in the stomach). Furthermore, the liquid increases the volume in the stomach, making this organ increasingly distended, favoring greater gastric capacity.

3. You must drink water even if you are not thirsty

REAL. Our body constantly loses fluid, whether when we sweat, urinate or even when we breathe. So the ideal is to divide water consumption throughout the day. However, it is important to underline that when it is close to going to sleep it is important to reduce its intake so that the person has a peaceful and constant sleep, without the need to wake up at night to urinate.

4. It is not advisable to drink a lot of water in a short amount of time

REAL. Water consumption should be daily and determined by age group, lifestyle and/or health conditions. However, our bodies need water in different concentrations. Drinking water all at once doesn’t help at all. This process can be noticed on a hot day, where we sweat more and at this time the body needs more water.

Another example is people who use diuretics and therefore need to drink more water to hydrate. The water intake must come from the external environment and must be divided throughout the day, since our body uses water in multiple processes.

5. Sparkling water is less hydrating than still water

Myth. The hydration power is the same. But remember, carbonated water is not a natural product but rather a product modified by the food industry.

6. Cold water is more effective at quenching thirst

Myth. The water temperature does not interfere with the thirst-quenching power.

7. Drink water ice cream helps you lose weight

Depends. When ingested, cold water causes the body to try to balance its temperature with that of the water, i.e. it will try to bring it closer to body temperature. This process requires more energy than bodywhich can help with weight loss. However, be careful! Without adopting healthy habits, including a balanced diet, ice water will have no significant effect.

8. Bottled water has an expiration date

REALbut this happens not because of the water, but rather because of the container in which it is bottled. This container can contain microorganisms that can grow in plain water, hence the importance of having an expiration date on bottled water.

9. Drinking water is good for your skin

REAL. A hydrated body allows you to have more elastic and luminous skin, delaying the signs of aging.

By Nágila Pires

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.