Gut Myths Busted: What Fortis Delhi’s Top Gastroenterologist Says About Digestion and Water‑While‑Eating

When you scroll through social media, you’ll quickly run into a barrage of gut‑health tips that sound convincing but often have little scientific backing. To cut through the noise, we sat down with Dr. Ankit Sharma, a senior gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospital, New Delhi, who kindly shared his perspective on six of the most frequently‑circulated myths.

Myth 1: Eating after 6 pm makes you gain weight. The truth? It’s not the clock that matters, it’s the total calories you consume and your activity level. Dr. Sharma explains that the body doesn’t suddenly switch off its metabolism at sundown; it continues to process food just the same, provided you’re not overeating.

Myth 2: Drinking water while eating dilutes stomach acid and harms digestion. A classic concern that many of us grew up hearing. According to the gastroenterologist, a normal sip of water actually helps break down food and eases the passage of nutrients. Only an extreme amount of liquid might temporarily reduce acidity, but that’s rarely the case in everyday meals.

Myth 3: All carbs are bad for the gut. Not quite. While refined carbs can contribute to bloating for some, complex carbohydrates – whole grains, legumes, fruits – provide essential fiber that feeds good bacteria. “Balance is key,” says Dr. Sharma, noting that eliminating carbs altogether can lead to nutrient gaps.

Myth 4: Spicy food always causes ulcers. Spices can irritate a sensitive stomach, but they don’t directly cause ulcers. The real culprits are Helicobacter pylori infection and prolonged use of NSAIDs. In fact, some spices like turmeric have anti‑inflammatory properties that may benefit gut health.

Myth 5: Probiotics are a magic bullet for every digestive issue. Probiotics can help restore a healthy microbial balance after antibiotics or during mild IBS, but they’re not a one‑size‑fits‑all cure. Dr. Sharma advises patients to choose strains backed by research and to pair them with a diet rich in pre‑biotic fibers.

Myth 6: Skipping breakfast leads to a slower metabolism. The evidence is mixed. While a balanced breakfast can prevent overeating later, the body’s basal metabolic rate remains relatively steady. The real focus should be on overall nutrient intake throughout the day.

Beyond debunking myths, Dr. Sharma emphasizes practical habits: chew slowly, stay hydrated (but don’t gulp down gallons during meals), include diverse fibers, and limit processed foods. He also reminds readers that persistent gut discomfort warrants a professional evaluation, not just a DIY remedy from the internet.

In short, gut health isn’t about adhering to a single rulebook; it’s about understanding how your body reacts and making informed choices. As Dr. Sharma puts it, “listen to your gut, but also listen to the science.”