For generations, Ayurveda has emphasized one belief: drinking water stored in copper vessels is beneficial for health. It is said that such water gets purified, provides essential minerals to the body, improves digestion, and boosts overall energy. Even today, many households continue the practice of storing water in copper bottles. However, this water may not be suitable for everyone. In certain health conditions, excess copper can be harmful. Therefore, it is important to know who should consume this water and who should avoid it. Let us look at the groups of people advised against drinking water from copper bottles.
Who Should Avoid Drinking Water from Copper Bottles?
1. Kidney Patients
The kidneys act as filters, removing harmful substances from the body. In kidney-related disorders, this ability becomes weak, leading to copper buildup in the bloodstream. Excess copper can behave like poison for patients, worsening kidney damage and pushing them toward failure. A study in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology warns that copper toxicity may accelerate complications. Therefore, patients suffering from chronic kidney disease or failure are strictly advised against drinking water stored in copper bottles. Safer alternatives for hydration include glass or BPA-free plastic bottles. Always consult a doctor before making such lifestyle choices.
2. People with Wilson’s Disease
Wilson’s Disease is a hereditary condition where the body cannot properly regulate copper. Instead of being eliminated, copper accumulates in vital organs such as the liver, brain, and eyes, eventually causing serious damage. For patients with this condition, even small amounts of copper exposure can prove dangerous. Drinking water from a copper bottle adds to the risk by increasing copper levels in the body. Doctors strongly advise such patients to follow strict dietary guidelines and avoid copper-rich utensils. Managing this condition requires careful medical supervision, and avoiding copper bottles is one of the key precautions.
3. Those with Copper Allergy or Sensitivity
While copper benefits many people, some may develop allergic reactions to it. This sensitivity often appears after drinking water from copper bottles. Common symptoms include skin rashes, itching, stomach discomfort, nausea, or other digestive issues. These reactions signal that the body is intolerant to copper exposure. If such symptoms occur, discontinuing the use of copper bottles immediately is crucial. Ignoring these warning signs may worsen the condition. Consulting a medical expert for proper evaluation and treatment is recommended. For such individuals, using alternative storage materials like stainless steel, glass, or safe plastic bottles is a healthier choice.
4. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, maintaining nutritional balance is vital for both mother and child. Although copper is needed in small amounts, excess intake can cause toxicity. Drinking water regularly from copper bottles may disturb this balance, leading to potential risks like developmental issues or health complications. Doctors often advise limiting copper exposure during these sensitive stages. Pregnant and lactating women should consult their healthcare providers before using copper utensils or supplements. Safer hydration methods include filtered or boiled water stored in non-copper bottles. Following professional guidance ensures safety and protects both maternal and infant health during this critical phase.
5. Infants and Young Children
Children’s bodies are still developing, and their metabolism is not fully capable of processing excess copper. When exposed to high copper levels, they may experience symptoms of copper toxicity such as vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, and weakness. In severe cases, prolonged exposure can harm the liver, causing long-term health problems. Therefore, pediatricians strongly discourage giving infants or young children water stored in copper bottles. Parents should instead provide water from glass or safe plastic containers. Since early childhood is a delicate stage, avoiding copper is a preventive step to safeguard health and ensure proper physical development in growing children.