Copper has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments, and recently, copper water bottles have become a popular item for health-conscious consumers. But does drinking from a copper water bottle really improve your health? In this article, we’ll explore the potential health benefits of drinking from a copper water bottle and what the research says.
What are the potential health benefits of drinking from a copper water bottle?
- Antimicrobial properties: Copper has been found to have natural antimicrobial properties, meaning it can help to kill bacteria and other harmful pathogens. This could be particularly beneficial for improving digestive health and preventing infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Copper has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could be helpful for reducing inflammation in the body and improving overall health.
- Boosting the immune system: Copper is an important mineral for supporting the immune system, and drinking water from a copper bottle could help to ensure that your body has adequate levels of this essential nutrient.
- Antioxidant properties: Copper is a powerful antioxidant, which means that it can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This could be beneficial for preventing chronic diseases and slowing the aging process.
- Improved digestion: Some people believe that drinking water from a copper bottle can help to improve digestion, by increasing the production of digestive enzymes and reducing inflammation in the gut.
What does the research say?
There have been several studies conducted on the potential health benefits of drinking water from a copper vessel. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition found that storing water in copper vessels for 16 hours led to significant reductions in the presence of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, in the water.
Another study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that drinking water from a copper vessel can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the body. The study also found that copper can help boost the immune system and improve overall health.
However, it’s important to note that these studies were conducted on a relatively small scale and more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of drinking from a copper water bottle.
What are the potential risks of drinking from a copper water bottle?
While there are potential health benefits to drinking from a copper water bottle, there are also potential risks. Copper is a heavy metal, and consuming too much of it can be harmful to your health. The daily recommended intake of copper for adults is 900 micrograms, and drinking from a pure copper water bottle can cause copper to leach into the water, potentially leading to copper toxicity if consumed in excess.
Additionally, the quality of the copper used in the water bottle is important. If the copper is not of high quality, it may contain impurities that can be harmful to your health.
How to safely drink from a copper water bottle?
If you decide to drink from a copper water bottle, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety.
- Choose a high-quality copper water bottle from a reputable seller.
- Don’t fill the bottle to the top. Only fill it up to about three-quarters of the way full to allow room for the water to expand.
- Don’t store acidic liquids, such as citrus juices or vinegar, in a copper water bottle as they can cause the copper to leach into the liquid.
- Clean the bottle regularly with a mixture of salt and lemon juice or vinegar to remove any impurities and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
- If you have a known copper allergy or sensitivity, it’s best to avoid drinking from a copper water bottle.
In conclusion, while there are potential health benefits of drinking from a pure copper bottle, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits. It’s important to take