is boiled water good for health - #39634
I am pretty confused about this whole boiled water thing. Like, I've heard so many different opinions! Last week, I got a bad stomach bug after eating out, and my friend told me that drinking boiled water would help. I boiled a huge pot and was chugging it for days, thinking, "Is boiled water good for health?" I mean, must be, right? But then, I felt bloated and a bit nauseous again. I don't know if it was the water or the leftover food I'd kept in the fridge for too long. Ugh! I did some reading and I came across stuff saying boiled water can remove impurities, but is it really that effective? Like, should I be drinking it all the time? Like, it just feels weird — especially since I’ve always loved my cold drinks. Trying to adjust and now I'm not sure what’s best. Even when I cook, I feel like I should be using boiled water instead of just tap water. Just yesterday, I overheard someone at the grocery store say that drinking too much boiled water is not good. I’m like, wait a minute, is boiled water good for health? I felt lost and wondered about others' experiences with it. Maybe some of you had similar episodes? Any guidance would be super helpful!
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Doctors' responses
Boiled water is a topic of much debate in both modern health circles and traditional practices like Ayurveda. It’s understandable to feel confused given the myriad of opinions floating around. From an Ayurvedic perspective, water is more than just a thirst quencher; it’s an essential element that supports the body’s natural processes, impacting your overall health and wellness.
Boiling water, traditionally known as ‘ushnodaka’ in Ayurveda, is generally considered beneficial as it can help to eliminate impurities, bacteria, and toxins, especially if you are uncertain about the quality of your water source. This could be why your friend recommended boiled water during your stomach bug episode. It’s particularly helpful when digestive issues are present, as the process of boiling can enhance the water’s ability to support agni, your digestive fire, and promote better digestion.
However, drinking large amounts of boiled water can potentially cause imbalances, leading to symptoms such as bloating and nausea that you experienced. It’s key to consume it in moderation, perhaps focusing on warm or room temperature water rather than excessively hot. Balance is a central Ayurvedic principle; over-consumption or using it excessively deviates from this balance.
It may not be necessary to replace all your cold drinks with boiled water. Cold beverages can tend to dampen the agni, slowing digestion, but that doesn’t mean every drink must be piping hot. Find a practical middle ground that suits your constitution, or ‘prakriti’.
If you’re dealing with frequent digestive discomfort, consider a holistic approach. This may involve evaluating dietary habits, meal timings, and even stress levels which can influence your digestive health. A qualified Ayurveda practitioner can help determine your specific dosha balance, guiding you to tailor your water intake and diet to your constitution.
When it comes to cooking, boiled water isn’t strictly necessary for all applications, but if it alleviates concern over water quality, using it for soups and teas could be a beneficial practice.
For safety and practicality, if you’re uncertain about the safety of your water source, boiling is a sound precaution. Yet, balance your consumption and remain mindful of your body’s responses. Healthcare guidance from a professional should always be prioritized if any symptoms persist or escalate.

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