Water is an essential part of life, necessary for survival and overall well-being. While we can go a few days without it, dehydration can quickly set in, affecting body functions and energy levels. It’s not just about drinking enough water daily; it’s also about how you drink it. Sipping versus gulping has become a topic of discussion, with experts favouring the former for several reasons.
Speaking to the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Preeti Nagar, a dietitian at NIIMS Medical College and Hospital (Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences), explains that sipping water helps the body maintain proper hydration balance. Sipping allows water to be absorbed more efficiently, aiding digestion and preventing dehydration. This slower intake gives your body time to process and utilise water effectively, reducing the risks of bloating and indigestion. Let’s explore this practice further.
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Sipping Water Versus Gulping Water Down
While both help in maximising hydration, sipping water involves drinking it in small amounts, or taking small mouthfuls at a time, as opposed to gulping down water, which involves drinking it quickly and in large amounts.
According to Dr Nagar, sipping water gradually allows for better digestion and absorption, maintaining balanced hydration levels. “Gulping water can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to inefficient absorption, bloating, and discomfort,” she says, adding that sipping promotes smooth digestion, while gulping can create digestive issues.
Is Sipping Water Better For Health Than Gulping It Down?
You might have understood by now that sipping is the preferred way to drink your water rather than gulping it down. But if you’re still wondering why, here are some reasons:
- Minimises air intake: When you sip water instead of gulping it, you take in less air. This reduces the chances of bloating, discomfort, or excessive gas caused by swallowing air along with the water.
- Improves digestion: Sipping allows water to be absorbed gradually, which helps maintain the balance of stomach acids. This supports efficient digestion, prevents digestive disruptions, and promotes a smoother breakdown of food.
- Prevents acid reflux and bloating: Gulping water can cause the stomach to expand too quickly, leading to pressure that triggers acid reflux or bloating. Sipping water helps avoid this by giving the stomach enough time to adjust, reducing discomfort.
On the contrary, gulping down water can increase the risk of:
- Acid reflux: Gulping water causes the stomach to expand quickly, increasing pressure. This can push stomach contents back into the oesophagus, triggering acid reflux and heartburn.
- Bloating: When you gulp water, you often swallow air along with it. This air accumulates in the digestive system, leading to bloating, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness.
How Much Water Should You Drink In A Day?
To stay hydrated, aim for 2-3 litres of water daily, keeping in consideration activity level, climate, and individual needs, says Dr Nagar.
“Instead of gulping, sip throughout the day. Think of hydration like watering a plant—regular, small amounts promote optimal growth. Try sipping a glass every hour or keeping a bottle handy,” the dietitian advises, adding that you can also boost hydration by incorporating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables into your diet.