Researchers say frequent sips of water while eating may be linked to consuming more food, though further studies are needed.

A new study suggests that drinking water repeatedly during meals may not help reduce food intake as commonly believed and could instead be associated with eating more.

Many people assume that sipping water while eating creates a feeling of fullness, leading to lower calorie consumption. However, researchers say their findings challenge that widely held belief.

According to a study conducted by Cornell University researchers, participants consumed an average of 40 grams more food for every additional 100 milliliters of water they drank during a meal—equivalent to roughly 50 extra calories.

The study also found that participants who switched more frequently between eating and drinking tended to consume larger amounts of food overall.

Researchers noted that previous studies had similarly observed that individuals with obesity often spend more time drinking water during meals, drink more rapidly, and take frequent sips throughout the eating process.

The researchers said these findings suggest the relationship between water consumption during meals and food intake may be more complex than previously thought.

However, they emphasized that the results do not prove that drinking water causes overeating, and additional research is needed to better understand the connection.

Health experts continue to recommend staying adequately hydrated throughout the day, while maintaining balanced eating habits and portion control as part of a healthy lifestyle.

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