Drinking water after watermelon? Nutritionist debunks food myths

Many food-related myths are common in our society making it important to understand the facts and distinguish them from misconceptions.

During the summer season, several beliefs circulate regarding food and drinks including whether drinking water after eating watermelon is harmful whether milk should not be consumed with fish whether drinking water immediately after meals is unhealthy and whether soft drinks help eliminate body heat.

Nutritionist Hajra Saleem addressed these common myths and explained the scientific reality behind them. She stated that most of these beliefs have little or no scientific basis. According to her, the most important factor in keeping the body cool during hot weather is drinking an adequate amount of water.

She recommended consuming 8 to 12 glasses of water daily along with water-rich fruits and foods such as yogurt to help maintain hydration and replenish essential minerals.

Responding to a question about soft drinks, she explained that drinking soda occasionally is not harmful but regular consumption of soft drinks can lead to excessive sugar and calorie intake.

Addressing the belief that drinking water or lassi after eating watermelon can cause food poisoning, Hajra Saleem called this misconception false. She explained that food poisoning is typically caused by contaminated fruits, poor hygiene practices or polluted water not by drinking water after watermelon.

She further noted that watermelon already contains 70–80% water so drinking water afterward does not create any health problems.

Similarly, she dismissed the belief that drinking water after eating cucumbers is harmful saying there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. If the water itself is contaminated, illness may occur but cucumbers are not the cause.

Regarding tea consumption after meals, she said that drinking one or two cups of tea is generally not harmful. However, excessive tea consumption may contribute to dehydration.

Speaking about sugar intake, the nutritionist emphasized that it is not necessary to eliminate sugar completely from the diet; moderation is the key.

According to international health recommendations, the daily limit is about six teaspoons of sugar while a single 250 ml serving of juice or a soft drink may already contain a similar amount.

Hajra Saleem also rejected the belief that drinking milk with fish causes skin diseases such as vitiligo. She explained that fish is an excellent source of protein and is commonly served worldwide with milk- or yogurt-based sauces.

She added that eating hot and cold foods together is generally not harmful because once food reaches the stomach, its temperature gradually adjusts to normal body conditions.

Regarding drinking water immediately after meals, she said there is no reliable scientific evidence suggesting that it should be avoided. According to her, water can be consumed before, during or after meals without causing health problems.