Exploding Food Myth 5. Drinking water during a meal is fattening

Water contains no calories, so it is not fattening at any time. However, good health indicates that it is vital to drink between 1.5 and 2 litres per day, as water is 60% of our body mass weight. It is also important to drink water before being thirsty, as feeling thirst is a clear indication of dehydration. This is especially so in the heat of summer. This myth possibly arises from the fact that after a particularly thirst quenching drink of water, we may feel bloated. And another thing that will be confirmed by just about everyone: try not to drink too much water before going to bed or you'll be up all night (this is true for most people over 50). (See Exploding Food Myth 4.)