Have you ever been cautioned by your elders or family members against drinking water while standing? Drinking water is essential not just for staying hydrated, but also to ensure proper body functioning. However, there is an ongoing debate on the risks of drinking water while standing among doctors, community elders, and even Ayurvedic experts. Let us take a closer look at the same below.
Drinking water while standing is generally avoidable due to the following reasons.
The right way to consume regular or mineral water is while sitting on a chair and keeping your back erect throughout the process. In this manner, the vital nutrients in water will reach the brain and enhance brain functions, while digestion will also improve, without any chances of bloating.
The Ayurveda school of thought strongly recommends against drinking water while standing, saying it harms the digestive system. Experts say that it disturbs the fluid balance and leads to indigestion. They also feel that our bodies only get the benefits of water when we drink it while in a sitting position. These experts also highlight accumulation in the joint zones when we drink water in a standing position, due to which there are risks of arthritis and the generation of toxins in the body as well.
So, the core takeaway from both Ayurvedic and general wisdom is the same- it is harmful to drink in a standing position since it leads to nervous tension and multiple issues resulting from water entering the body at higher speed and force. However, there are some doctors who steadfastly state that there are no hard and fast rules regarding drinking water while sitting or standing. They feel that the core aim of people should be to stay hydrated since there is limited evidence regarding the negative impacts of drinking water in a standing position.
First and foremost, you should focus on suitable hydration each day, drinking sufficient water without fail. Secondly, try to drink water in a sitting position whenever possible. However, sometimes you cannot avoid drinking water while standing¸ particularly when you are outdoors. In these scenarios, remember to drink slowly without gulping down water rapidly.