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There’s a common myth that drinking water while standing is bad for your kidneys. Maybe you’ve heard it from family, friends, or even on social media. Some say it can cause health problems, but is this really true? Drinking water is essential for our health, and sometimes we worry about the small details like whether we should sit or stand while drinking. But does your posture really make a difference to your kidneys? Read ahead to know what science and medical experts have to say.
Expert Reacts To the Myth of Drinking Water While Standing![2 - 2025-05-30T154207.627]( "drinking water for kidney")
Many traditional beliefs and home remedies warn against drinking water while standing. Some claim it can cause kidney problems, joint pain, or even digestive issues. These ideas have been passed down through generations, but they don’t have scientific backing. In reality, the way you drink water, whether sitting or standing, does not directly harm your kidneys.
Dr Kiran B J, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, Bangalore Hospitals, Bangalore, explains, “From a medical standpoint, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that drinking water while standing adversely affects kidney function. The kidneys are highly efficient organs that continuously filter blood and regulate fluid balance, regardless of body posture during water intake.”
Medical research does not support the idea that standing and drinking water are bad for your kidneys. The kidneys work all the time to filter blood and remove waste, no matter what position you are in. There is no study that proves drinking water while standing can cause kidney damage. A study published in the Journal of Nephrology looked at hydration habits and kidney health. It found that the most important factor for kidney health is staying well-hydrated throughout the day, not the position in which you drink water.
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What Really Matters for Kidney Health?![1 - 2025-05-30T154209.447]( "water and kidney health")
Dr Kiran says, “Medical experts emphasise that the body's hydration status, overall diet, and lifestyle choices have a more significant impact on kidney health than the position in which water is consumed.” This means that what you eat, how much water you drink, and your daily habits are much more important for your kidneys than whether you are sitting or standing when you drink.
Is There Any Benefit to Sitting and Drinking Water?
Some experts say that sitting down to drink water can help you be more mindful. When you sit, you may drink more slowly and pay attention to how much water you’re taking in. This can help you stay better hydrated. Mindful hydration is good for your overall health, but it does not mean that standing and drinking are bad for your kidneys.
If you prefer to sit and drink water, that’s great. If you find yourself drinking while standing, that’s fine too. The key is to make sure you drink enough water every day. Adults should aim for about 2 to 3 liters of water daily, but this can vary based on your age, activity level, and climate.
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Conclusion
There is no scientific evidence that drinking water while standing is harmful to your kidneys. Your kidneys are strong organs that work efficiently, no matter how much water you drink. According to Dr Kiran, while the posture during water consumption does not directly influence kidney function, adopting a seated position may support better hydration. The primary focus should be on maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day to support optimal kidney and overall health.