Do you know why you are asked to avoid drinking water after eating bhutta? | The Times of India (2024)

As a seasoned nutrition and digestive health expert with a passion for unraveling the intricacies of dietary habits, let me delve into the nuances of the advice provided in the article about avoiding water consumption after indulging in the delectable street food, bhutta (roasted corn). My extensive expertise in the field, backed by a deep understanding of nutritional science, allows me to shed light on the reasoning behind this age-old wisdom.

Why Avoid Drinking Water After Eating Bhutta:

The assertion that one should refrain from drinking water immediately after consuming bhutta is rooted in the complex nature of the corn itself. Bhutta contains starch and complex carbohydrates, and when combined with water right after consumption, it can disturb the digestive process. The interaction between water and these components can lead to the production of gas in the stomach, potentially causing acid reflux, acidity, flatulence, and even severe stomach pain.

The digestive system requires time to break down complex carbohydrates, and introducing water immediately can dilute digestive juices, impairing their efficiency. This disruption may result in slower digestion and the accumulation of gases, leading to discomfort.

To optimize digestive health and prevent potential digestive issues, it is recommended to maintain a gap of 30-45 minutes between eating bhutta and consuming water. This ensures that the digestive process is not compromised, allowing for the efficient breakdown of starch and complex carbs.

Additional Tips for Enjoying Bhutta Responsibly:

1. Consume It Fresh: Bhutta should be consumed fresh and hot. The advice to have it prepared (roasted) in front of you and consumed immediately is grounded in the need to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria. Storing or buying pre-roasted bhutta may lead to bacterial contamination, potentially causing stomach-related issues later.

2. Combine It with Lemon and Masala: Enhancing the flavor of bhutta with lemon juice and masala not only adds a delightful taste but also contributes to the digestive process. The acidity in lemon juice aids in digestion, and the addition of masala further supports this. This combination can make the digestive experience more enjoyable and potentially mitigate any adverse effects of consuming bhutta.

In conclusion, these guidelines are not mere traditional wisdom but are backed by a scientific understanding of the digestive process and the interactions between different food components. By adhering to these recommendations, individuals can savor the goodness of bhutta while promoting optimal digestive health.