Changes in water in a copper vessel and health effects of different durations.

Part I

 The effect of storing water in a copper vessel for varying durations , Here's a general breakdown of what might occur over each 6-hour step:

 

1.  First 6 hours : Initially, there may not be significant changes in the water composition, but some copper ions may start leaching into the water.

 

2.  6-12 hours : The concentration of copper ions in the water may increase slightly, potentially imparting a faint metallic taste to the water.

 

3.  12-18 hours : As time progresses, more copper ions may continue to leach into the water, altering its taste and potentially leading to a greener tint in the water.

 

4.  18-24 hours : By this point, the water might have absorbed a noticeable amount of copper, which could lead to a stronger metallic taste and a more distinct color change.

 

5.  24-30 hours : Further leaching of copper ions may occur, potentially intensifying the metallic taste and altering the water's pH slightly.

 

6.  30-36 hours : Depending on factors such as water quality and temperature, the concentration of copper ions in the water may reach a plateau, stabilizing the taste and color changes.

 

7.  36-42 hours : The water's properties may remain relatively constant during this period, with minimal additional changes in taste or appearance.

 

8.  42-48 hours : At this stage, the water may have reached equilibrium with the copper vessel, resulting in a consistent taste and color profile.

 

9.  48-50 hours : There may be diminishing returns in terms of further changes to the water's properties, as the leaching of copper ions stabilizes.

 

It's important to note that these changes are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific copper vessel, water quality, and environmental conditions. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high concentrations of copper can be harmful, so it's advisable to monitor the water and vessel closely during storage.

 

Part II:

Drinking water stored in copper vessels can have both positive and negative effects on health, depending on various factors such as the duration of storage, water type, and individual susceptibility. Here's a tentative breakdown of the effects based on the described water types :

 

1.         Water Type A (0-6 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Minimal at this stage, but some proponents of copper water believe that trace amounts of copper can have antimicrobial properties, potentially helping to purify the water.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Limited risk of adverse effects as copper leaching is minimal during this period.

 

2.         Water Type B (6-12 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Continued purported antimicrobial properties from trace copper levels.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Faint metallic taste may be noticeable but generally not harmful.

-          Minimal risk of copper toxicity.

 

3.         Water Type C (12-18 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Potential antimicrobial benefits persist.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Increased risk of metallic taste.

-          Slight risk of copper toxicity with prolonged consumption.

 

4.         Water Type D (18-24 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Antimicrobial properties, though effectiveness may plateau.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Strong metallic taste may deter some individuals.

-          Increased risk of copper toxicity with prolonged consumption.

 

5.         Water Type E (24-30 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Antimicrobial effects may still be present.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Intensified metallic taste.

-          Risk of copper toxicity increases, especially with daily consumption over time.

 

6.         Water Type F (30-36 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Stable antimicrobial properties.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Metallic taste likely consistent.

-          Continued risk of copper toxicity with prolonged daily intake.

 

7.         Water Type G (36-42 hours):

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Antimicrobial benefits remain.

 

-           Negative Effects:

-          Taste and appearance likely stable but may not be desirable for some.

-          Risk of copper toxicity persists.

 

8.         Summary:

-           Positive Effects:  

-          Potential antimicrobial properties throughout.

-           Negative Effects:

-          Metallic taste may deter consumption.

-          Risk of copper toxicity increases with prolonged exposure, particularly in later stages of water storage.

 

9.       Over the course of a year, daily consumption of water stored in copper vessels could lead to a gradual accumulation of copper in the body, potentially resulting in symptoms of copper toxicity such as gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and liver damage. Therefore, it's advisable to monitor both water storage duration and individual health responses closely. If any adverse effects are experienced, discontinuing the consumption of copper-infused water is recommended. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is also prudent, especially for individuals with specific health concerns or conditions.

Health effects of copper on body

Compiled by Dr M Khalid Munir , MBBS, Cert in diabetes ( Univ of Copenhagen). Ex consultant Kamineni wockhardt hospital, Hyderabad. For in person consultation or online video consultation, Whatsapp 9959098255