Have you ever kept a bottle of water for a road trip to forget about it? Or, if you are always walking, have you stored a bottle of water in your car “in terms of emergency”, only later find it under the seat, is heated by the sun? For a moment, you may be surprised – should you drink it or throw it away? After all, this is just water, isn’t it? But apart from unpleasant taste, drinking water from a plastic bottle that is sitting in a warm car may not be the best option for your health. Let’s see how it affects your body.
Also read: Rice above it! 4 incredible health benefits of Kanji or rice water
Is it safe to drink bottled water left in a warm car?
The brief answer is that it is best to avoid it. Why? Due to the presence of plastic.
Research published in The Journal Science of the Total Environment states that drinking water from a plastic bottle in contact for prolonged heat can cause the release of harmful chemicals. Another study in environmental science and technology found that when plastic products come in contact with warm water, they release trillions of nanoplings per liter in water. When consumed for an extended period, these chemicals can interfere with hormonal balance and meet serious health risks.
Photo Credit: ISTOCK
There is also another issue – bacterial growth. If you have already sipped from the bottle, your saliva introduces bacteria. A hot environment accelerates the growth of bacteria, converting the bottle into breeding ground for germs. Drinking water from such bottle can cause stomach problems and digestive issues. While a single SIP cannot cause immediate damage, consuming such water regularly can have long -term health effects.
How to ensure that you are drinking enough water correctly
Summer is coming, and it is time to focus on staying hydrated. Now that we know that it is best to avoid drinking bottled water that is left in a warm car, let us look at some methods to ensure proper hydration throughout the day.
1. Carry an untouched bottle
Instead of using a plastic bottle, invest in stainless steel or untouched water bottle. This will keep your water cool and safe, even if without cares for the heat.
2. Set Hydration Reminder
If you forget to drink water, set a reminder on your phone or use a hydration-tracking app. These small steps help you to stay hydrated and prevent fatigue related to dehydration.
3. Infect your water for a refreshing change
Instead of drinking plain water, try to infect it with natural ingredients. Add lemon, mint, cucumber, or berries to enhance taste. Not only does it make water more enjoyable, but it encourages you to drink more.
4. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty
Feeling thirsty means that you are already dehydrated. Instead of waiting for that sign, make a habit of drinking water regularly. A good rule of thumb is to drink half a glass of water every 30 minutes to stay hydrated throughout the day.
5. Keep a water bottle within access
Whether you are at work, commuting, or at home, always keep a bottle of water nearby. Due to the water within the reach, it becomes easier to sips throughout the day and supports your body’s natural detoxification process.
6. Eat water rich foods
Hydration is not only about drinking water. You can also stay hydrated by including water rich foods in your diet. Eat fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges and strawberries to help maintain hydration levels while enjoying essential vitamins and minerals.
Also read: 11 Best Holi Recipes: Gujiya to Thandai, these Holi cuisine are sure to drown you
final thoughts
It is important to stay hydrated, but drinking water from a plastic bottle which is sitting in summer for days is not a safe option. By following these simple yet effective hydration tips, you can protect your health by ensuring proper hydration throughout the day.
