Is Watermelon + Water A Bad Combo? Here's The Truth About The Risk
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Experts advise avoiding water right after watermelon. Skip chaat masala too as it may upset digestion. Watermelon is best eaten plain and solo
It's summer, and nothing screams refreshment quite like a big juicy slice of watermelon. But just as you're about to polish off a few wedges, someone inevitably pipes up with, 'Don't drink water after eating watermelon – you'll upset your stomach!" Sound familiar? While this nugget of advice has echoed through generations, does it hold any water – scientifically speaking?
Can You Drink Water With Watermelon?
According to Deepali Sharma, Clinical Nutritionist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, there's no hard scientific evidence proving that water should be avoided after eating watermelon. That said, watermelon is made up of about 92% water, making it quite hydrating on its own. Gulping down extra water straight after might dilute digestive enzymes and juices in your gut, potentially causing bloating or mild indigestion.
So, while your elders might not have had the scientific lingo to back it up, their advice wasn't completely off. Experts recommend waiting 15 to 20 minutes after eating watermelon before drinking water.
Say No To Fizzy Experiments And Sugary Mocktails
During summer, watermelon often finds itself in a variety of 'creative' concoctions – from sugary syrups to soda-spiked mocktails. Nutritionists advise skipping these calorie-laden creations. If you must juice your watermelon, keep it simple and pure – no added water, no sugar, no soda.
Think Twice Before Reaching For Chaat Masala
Sure, chaat masala might jazz up the taste, but adding salt or spices to watermelon can trigger water loss from the fruit and cause digestive discomfort. In short: your taste buds might be pleased, but your tummy might not be.
A Word On pH And Pairings
Ayurvedic principles advise against combining water with water-rich fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges. This is said to disturb your stomach's pH balance and may result in issues like diarrhoea or vomiting.
Also, skip combining watermelon with dairy – shakes, yoghurt, or milk. These food pairings don't sit well together in the digestive tract and could lead to gastric trouble.
The Verdict?
Keep it simple: enjoy watermelon plain, on an empty stomach between breakfast and lunch. Avoid water immediately afterwards, skip the masalas, and save the creative blending for another fruit. Sometimes, it's best to enjoy fruit just the way nature made it.
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First Published:
June 06, 2025, 08:26 IST
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