Cultural and Etiquette-Based Reasons
Beyond just health beliefs, Japanese dining practices are deeply intertwined with cultural etiquette and respect for the meal. In many social settings, particularly with alcoholic beverages, there is a specific order and ritual to drinking that is separate from eating. The meal often begins with a shared toast, or "kampai," where everyone waits for their glass to be filled before drinking together.
For non-alcoholic beverages like tea, the focus remains on the food itself. Rather than guzzling water, the emphasis is on savoring the full flavor and texture of each dish. The practice of serving others first is another key etiquette point, reflecting a collective sense of harmony and care at the table. Additionally, in more casual settings, you'll notice that eating or drinking while walking is considered a faux pas, reinforcing a mindful approach to consumption.
The 'Hara Hachi Bu' and Mindful Eating Philosophy
Central to the Japanese diet, particularly among the long-lived residents of Okinawa, is the principle of hara hachi bu—a Confucian teaching to eat until you are 80% full. This practice promotes mindful eating, which involves paying close attention to the sensory details of the food. When liquids are used to wash food down, it often leads to swallowing without adequate chewing. Japanese dietitians suggest that avoiding excess water with meals encourages more thorough chewing, a crucial step for proper digestion and metabolism. By chewing more, the body has to work less, and the digestive process is optimized from the very beginning.
Mindful Hydration
In the Japanese culinary tradition, hydration is often integrated into the meal itself. Instead of relying on a glass of water, much of the body's fluid intake comes from nutrient-dense, high-water-content foods. This includes staples like miso soup, various broths, and fresh vegetables.
The practice of sipping miso soup directly from the bowl is a common example. This allows the diner to appreciate the umami flavors and warmth, contributing to hydration without interrupting the digestive process of solid foods. This approach stands in stark contrast to the Western practice of having a large glass of water alongside every meal, and is viewed as a more balanced and holistic way to nourish the body.
Eastern Health Beliefs vs. Western Science
The traditional Japanese belief stems from Eastern health philosophies, which caution against "dousing the digestive fire" with large amounts of water during meals. The idea is that excessive liquid intake can dilute the stomach's natural digestive enzymes and acids, making it harder to break down food.
However, modern Western medical studies do not find strong evidence to support this claim, with some experts even suggesting that a glass of water with a meal can help digestion by moving food more easily through the intestines. While the scientific evidence may differ, the long-held cultural beliefs in Japan have cemented this practice and are aligned with an overall emphasis on mindful eating and respect for the food's natural flavors.
The Role of Soups and Fermented Foods
The Japanese diet is rich in fermented foods like miso, natto, and tsukemono (pickles), which are integral to gut health. These foods are packed with probiotics that aid digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome. Instead of drinking plain water, a hot bowl of miso soup is a regular feature of meals. Miso soup provides not only hydration but also beneficial bacteria that actively support the digestive system, making it a functional beverage that complements the meal rather than diluting it. Seaweed, another staple, also provides fiber and minerals that support gut health.
Japanese Hydration Habits in Contrast
| Feature | Japanese Approach | Western Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Timing of Drinks | Minimal drinking with meals; focus on hydration between meals or from food sources. | Standard practice to drink water or other beverages freely during meals. |
| Chewing | Emphasized for proper digestion, not rushed by liquid. | Can be rushed or minimal, with liquid used to wash down food. |
| Hydration Source | Primary source is water-rich foods, soups, and fermented items. | Primarily plain water or other beverages consumed with or near meals. |
| Philosophical Basis | Traditional beliefs about maintaining digestive fire and mindful eating. | Little to no philosophical basis; driven by habit and immediate thirst. |
Conclusion
The practice of not drinking while eating in Japan is a fascinating intersection of cultural norms, ancient health philosophies, and a deep appreciation for food. It is less about a strict dietary rule and more about a holistic approach to wellness and mindful consumption. By minimizing liquid intake during meals, the Japanese promote thorough chewing, respect the natural digestive process, and integrate hydration through wholesome, nutrient-dense foods like soups. While Western science may hold differing views on the digestive impact of water, the low obesity rates and high longevity in Japan speak to the overall success of this balanced and intentional lifestyle. It's a testament to how traditional practices, when combined with a healthy diet, can contribute to significant long-term health benefits.
References
[1.Savvy Tokyo https://savvytokyo.com/5-differences-japanese-western-diet-approaches/] [2.Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/digestion/faq-20058348] [3.Medicover Hospitals https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/articles/japanese-water-therapy] [4.Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hara_hachi_bun_me] [5.BBC Good Food https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/healthy-food-guides/why-japanese-diet-so-healthy] [6.JAL https://www.jal.co.jp/id/en/guide-to-japan/plan-your-trip/tips/what-to-know-when-dining-in-japan.html]
