Drinking water from copper water may seem like the new thing in the wellness world, but it’s a practice that has transcended generations. With its anti-bacterial properties, copper is said to act as a natural purifier for water and adds many health benefits to this basic necessity of life. Copper vessels and copper bottles have become common these days, but did you know drinking too much copper water can also be harmful for you?
Health Shots consulted Dr Veenu Gupta, Senior Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, to weigh in on the side effects of drinking excessive copper water.
Too much copper water may be harmful
Dr Gupta says that copper water boosts haemoglobin count, regulates hypertension, fights infections, soothes joints, strengthens bones and maintains heart health. But drinking too much copper water can do more harm than good.
Here are some of the side effects of drinking water from a copper utensil.
1. Copper poisoning
Copper is an essential mineral that our body needs, but excessive copper water can result in copper poisoning. You might end up with nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and in extreme cases, it can even damage your liver, says the expert.
2. Digestive issues
Drinking water that is stored in copper bottles or containers for a long period can cause copper ions to leach into the water. This might cause digestive issues like gas, diarrhea or stomach cramps, if it does not suit you.
3. Metal reactions
There are chances of copper reacting with other metals or minerals in the water. It leads to the production of compounds that can be potentially hazardous. For example, copper can combine with iron to form free radicals. This may harm cells and contribute to oxidative stress.
4. Allergic reactions
Some people are allergic to copper. In such cases, drinking copper water can cause skin rashes or irritation.
5. Contamination risks
If copper bottles are not properly cleaned or maintained, it will allow bacteria or molds to accumulate. Drinking polluted water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, says Dr Gupta.
Drinking water from a copper bottle
There are some things to keep in mind while using copper bottles for drinking water. Here are some of them:
• Go for a bottle that is made of pure copper. Then fill it with water and store it in a dry place overnight.
• Do not refrigerate the copper bottle.
• The best time to drink water from a copper bottle is on an empty stomach in the morning.
• Do not overdo it. Drinking water from a copper bottle twice a day (morning and evening) is sufficient to provide the necessary amount of copper to your body.
• Take breaks from drinking water that is stored in a copper bottle. You can take a month-long break after regularly copper water for two months. This will allow your body to flush out the extra copper.
Who should avoid copper water?
Unfortunately, not every person can have copper water. If your liver’s ability to remove excess copper from your body is less, it can lead to copper toxicity. People who are living with kidney and liver diseases should avoid drinking copper water, says the expert.
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