Why you should never drink water while standing

Many of us don’t think twice about how we drink water, but according to health studies, the way we drink water matters.

Drinking water while standing can have negative effects on the body due to the stress it places on our tissues, organs, and fluid balance.

Here’s a look at the reasons it’s recommended to avoid drinking water while standing:

Digestive issues

One of the main reasons to avoid drinking water while standing is the negative impact on digestion. When we drink water standing up, it flows quickly through our digestive tract, hitting the stomach with force. This rapid intake can lead to tension in the nerves and disrupt the fluid balance, making digestion less efficient. Ayurveda suggests that this can cause indigestion and even toxin buildup over time due to the pressure on the stomach lining.

Increased risk of joint pain and arthritis

Standing while drinking water can also have longer-term effects on joint health. The stress caused by rapid water intake disrupts fluid balance and may lead to fluid accumulation in the joints. This increases the risk of joint pain and arthritis as toxins and fluids settle in joint spaces. This is especially relevant if you have a family history of arthritis or joint issues, as this habit can exacerbate those risks.

Respiratory and cardiovascular concerns

When you drink water standing up, the essential nutrients and oxygen don’t reach the necessary organs as efficiently. Drinking too fast while standing may cause disruptions in the oxygen levels needed for lung and heart function. This occurs because, in a standing position, water moves too quickly through the system, bypassing proper absorption in the liver and digestive tract.

Kidney strain and urinary sssues

Our kidneys function best when our bodies are relaxed, as they filter more effectively. When we consume water standing up, the fluid flows directly into the bladder without being adequately filtered by the kidneys. This can lead to impurities collecting in the bladder, putting extra strain on the kidneys over time. It may also increase the risk of urinary tract issues due to unfiltered water passing through the system.

The right way to drink water: sit and relax

The ideal way to consume water is to sit down with a straight back, allowing the body to be in a relaxed and balanced state. Sitting allows for a steady and controlled flow of water, enabling better nutrient absorption, improved digestion, and reduced risk of the side effects associated with standing.