Water itself is life, and it is absolutely essential for sustaining life. But knowing how much water to drink, when to drink it, and what kind of water to drink is equally important.
- Do not drink too much water, nor too little. God has given us thirst precisely so that we can sense our body’s need for water.
- Water is cooling in nature, so it is more beneficial in the summer season, for people of a hot constitution, and in conditions caused by excess heat.
- Drinking too much water immediately before or after a meal weakens the digestive fire (Jatharagni).
- Taking small sips of water in between bites while eating is very beneficial.
- Do not drink water on an empty stomach immediately after exertion or exercise.
- Avoid drinking too much water in conditions such as cold, fever, swelling, ascites (Jalodar), excessive urination, or weak digestion (Mandagni).
- Avoid impure, leftover, stagnant, stale, or excessively cold water.
- During illness, drink water that has been boiled and allowed to cool to a lighter state.
- Drinking boiled water, especially during the Sharad (autumn) and Vasant (spring) seasons, helps maintain good health.
- Drinking a large quantity of water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach does clear the bowels, but it also washes away digestive juices and can increase body fat and swelling.
- Do not suppress the urge of thirst.
According to Ayurveda, when should water be consumed?
Taking small sips of water between bites while eating is beneficial, but drinking a large quantity right before or immediately after meals weakens the digestive fire. Water should not be taken on an empty stomach immediately after exercise.
What kind of water should be avoided?
Impure, leftover, stagnant, stale, or excessively cold water should be avoided. During illness and in the autumn and spring seasons, drinking water that has been boiled and cooled is healthier.
Under what conditions should excess water not be consumed?
In conditions such as cold, fever, swelling, ascites, excessive urination, or weak digestion (Mandagni), drinking too much water should be avoided.
Is it good to drink a lot of water first thing in the morning?
Drinking a large quantity of water on an empty stomach in the morning does help clear the bowels, but it can also wash away digestive juices and increase fat and swelling, so the quantity should be kept moderate.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
307, 3rd Floor, Shalin Complex, Above Farki Lassi, Krishnabaug Char Rasta, Maninagar, Ahmedabad – 380008
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