Hydration and dietary issues?
Hello, I heard that one should not drink more than 200cc of water at a time and not exceed 1000cc in an hour.
Does "at a time" refer to drinking it all in one go? I usually drink 700cc in an hour, but I sip it slowly.
Is that a problem? Additionally, I've heard that it's not advisable to shower or drink water right after a meal, and it's best to wait for two hours.
However, some foods take more than three hours to digest; is two hours sufficient? Lastly, for breakfast, I only eat an apple, have a normal lunch, and for dinner, I eat vegetables with fish and rice plus fruit.
Is there anything wrong with this diet? Thank you, doctor!
Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/23
Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition
Dear Xiang,
Hello! It is generally recommended to consume about 2000 cc of fluids daily, or approximately 30 cc per kilogram of body weight.
As for how much water to drink at a time, there are no specific guidelines; it can be based on your thirst level.
If you are exercising vigorously and feel very thirsty, drinking 700 cc in an hour is acceptable.
After meals, if you can take a short rest before showering, it will help you avoid discomfort from a full stomach while bathing.
You do not necessarily have to wait for two hours to shower; drinking an appropriate amount of water after meals is also fine.
Having only an apple for breakfast may lead to insufficient protein and calorie intake, which can affect your energy levels and, over time, impact your health.
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet for each meal.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei
Director of Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
Reply Date: 2014/05/23
More Info
Understanding hydration and dietary concerns is crucial for maintaining overall health, especially when considering the nuances of fluid intake and meal timing. Let’s address your questions one by one.
Firstly, regarding the recommendation of drinking no more than 200cc of water at a time and not exceeding 1000cc in an hour, it’s important to clarify what is meant by “次” (or “time”). This typically refers to the amount of water consumed in one sitting. Drinking 700cc of water over the course of an hour in small sips is generally acceptable and can be beneficial for hydration. The body is capable of processing fluids efficiently, and as long as you are not experiencing any discomfort or signs of overhydration (such as swelling or frequent urination), your approach seems reasonable.
Hydration needs can vary greatly depending on factors such as physical activity, climate, and individual health conditions. The general guideline is to listen to your body’s thirst signals and ensure you are consuming enough fluids throughout the day. It’s also worth noting that hydration can come from various sources, including fruits, vegetables, and other beverages.
Next, concerning the advice about not bathing or drinking water immediately after meals, this is a common belief rooted in traditional dietary practices. The rationale is that consuming water or bathing right after eating may interfere with digestion. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. The digestive process can vary significantly depending on the type of food consumed. While some foods may take longer to digest, the body is quite adept at managing digestion and fluid intake simultaneously. Drinking water after meals can actually aid digestion by helping to break down food and absorb nutrients. If you feel comfortable, waiting for about 30 minutes to an hour after eating before consuming large amounts of water is a practical approach, but two hours may be excessive for most people.
Lastly, regarding your meal pattern of having only an apple for breakfast, a normal lunch, and a dinner consisting of vegetables, fish, rice, and fruit, there are a few considerations. While apples are nutritious and provide fiber and vitamins, relying solely on them for breakfast may not provide enough energy or protein to sustain you throughout the morning. A balanced breakfast should ideally include a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to keep you satiated and energized. Consider adding a source of protein, such as yogurt, eggs, or nuts, to your breakfast.
Your lunch sounds well-rounded, but it’s essential to ensure that your dinner is also balanced. Including a variety of vegetables, a good source of protein (like fish), and whole grains (like brown rice) is excellent. However, be mindful of portion sizes and ensure you are getting enough calories throughout the day to meet your energy needs, especially if you are active.
In summary, staying hydrated is vital, and your current fluid intake seems appropriate as long as you are comfortable. The timing of water intake relative to meals is less critical than previously thought, and your meal pattern could benefit from more variety and balance, particularly at breakfast. If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, consulting with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs.
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